Palestine Marathon returns to Bethlehem as runner completes course along separation barrier

The Palestine Marathon returned to Bethlehem on Friday for the first time in three years, marking a significant logistical and symbolic moment in the occupied West Bank. The event took place along the separation barrier between Israel and the West Bank, with the route forced to loop around the same circuit twice. Organisers explained that a standard 42.2-kilometre course could not be completed without runners hitting a checkpoint or military gate, a disruption that underscores how military restrictions impact routine movement and open land for recreation.

Mohamad Al-Assi, a 27-year-old runner released from Israeli administrative detention six months ago, completed the marathon route despite significant physical challenges. After losing substantial muscle mass during his 32 months of imprisonment, Al-Assi resumed training in December. His mileage increased from 62 miles in the first month to 135 miles by April, according to his Strava account, before he finished second overall. He collapsed to his knees upon completion, dedicating the run to other Palestinians still held in detention.

The logistical constraints faced by participants were compounded by security operations along the route. Al-Assi reported that his training was frequently suspended due to military operations in the Dheisheh refugee camp and the presence of Israeli security forces. He noted that the difficulties included cars on the roads and the constant threat of checkpoints, which prevented him from completing intended training sessions and left him feeling hopeless at times.

Concurrently, a separate race occurred in Gaza, where 15 disabled people ran a 2K and thousands participated in a 5K. This event marked a shift in participation, as women who had previously been barred from similar events by Hamas were included. Thirteen years after UNRWA cancelled a 2013 marathon due to restrictions on women, their return to the course reflects a change in the local environment following the war.

The atmosphere in Bethlehem was celebratory despite the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and heightened Israeli restrictions that have scaled back other international events. Crowds gathered near the Church of the Nativity to cheer the runners, while bagpipes blared and drummers played traditional rhythms. The race highlighted the resilience of participants who must navigate a landscape where open land is increasingly taken by settlements and outposts.

Al-Assi's journey involved regaining not only physical endurance but also mental fortitude after spending a long period in prison. He described the emotional shattering caused by his detention and the impact of inadequate diets on his fitness. His dedication to the cause of detainees was evident as he shouted through tears that he was first in his class after 32 months of confinement.