Decades after war, churches near Jesus' baptism site to be cleared of mines

For the last 50 years the area where it is believed Jesus Christ was baptized has been surrounded by landmines as a result of numerous conflicts between Israel and other Middle Eastern countries. At the end of the Six-Day War, between Israel and Jordan, a ceasefire was established. In addition, barb wire fences, and landmines surround areas by the Jordan River where multiple churches stand. Now there is a huge process of bringing anti-mine equipment to remove the landmines. The organization that is doing this is called The HALO Trust, which is the world's largest humanitarian landmine removal organization. In order to begin the organization first hade to received permission from the Israelis, Palestinians, and the seven Christian denominations with churches at the site. With the removal of the mines, it will allow people to once again visit the site of Jesus' baptism. Also, this location is not just important for Christians as it hold very great significance to Jews as well as Muslims.

Jacob Razo

http://www.cnn.com/2016/05/15/travel/jesus-baptism-mine-field-liebermann/index.html