This year’s Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, are being significantly impacted by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Churches in the West Bank, considered the holy land of Christianity, are advocating for subdued festivities to recognize the suffering of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and West Bank following Israel’s response to Hamas’ attack on October 7.
The October 7 attack by Hamas, known as Black Saturday, resulted in the loss of 1,200 lives, predominantly Israeli civilians.
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In response, Israel launched a forceful retaliation aimed at eliminating Hamas, leading to the deaths of thousands of civilians, with around 70% being women and children.
Bethlehem, typically bustling with around 150,000 tourists during the Christmas period, has seen a drastic decline in visitors due to the conflict, resulting in economic hardship for locals.
Residents are contending with the impact of violence, and clashes between the IDF and West Bank citizens have intensified, with Bethlehem residents facing attacks.
Despite its status as a holy site, Bethlehem has experienced clashes and protests.
Some churches are expressing solidarity by setting up installations symbolizing the nativity scene amid the rubble, drawing attention to the situation in Gaza.
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