The traditional Christmas Eve celebrations in Bethlehem, the biblical birthplace of Jesus, were called off due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, turning the usually bustling town into an almost deserted ghost town. The festive lights, the iconic Christmas tree in Manger Square, and the customary throngs of tourists were notably absent, replaced by dozens of Palestinian security forces patrolling the quiet square, news agency Associated Press (AP) reported.
“This year, without the Christmas tree and without lights, there’s just darkness,” remarked Brother John Vinh, a Franciscan monk from Vietnam, as quoted by AP in its report. The nativity scene in Manger Square featured a baby Jesus wrapped in a white shroud, symbolising the thousands of children killed in the Gaza conflict. Barbed wire surrounded the scene, contrasting starkly with the usual joyous lights and colors that fill the square during the Christmas season.
The cancellation of Christmas festivities dealt a severe blow to Bethlehem's economy, as tourism contributes to an estimated 70% of its income, particularly during the Christmas season, the report mentioned. With major airlines cancelling flights to Israel and few foreigners visiting, over 70 hotels in Bethlehem have been forced to close, leaving thousands unemployed, as per AP.
Gift shops were slow to open on Christmas Eve, with few visitors present. Ala’a Salameh, owner of Afteem Restaurant near the square, told AP, “We can’t justify putting out a tree and celebrating as normal when some people (in Gaza) don’t even have houses to go to.”
Bethlehem Mayor Hana Haniyeh delivered a poignant message to the crowd under a banner reading "Bethlehem’s Christmas bells ring for a cease-fire in Gaza," stating, "Our message every year on Christmas is one of peace and love, but this year it’s a message of sadness, grief, and anger."
The impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict extends beyond Bethlehem, affecting life across the West Bank. Since October 7, access to Bethlehem and other Palestinian towns has been challenging due to military checkpoints, with restrictions preventing Palestinians from leaving the territory for work in Israel, the report stated.
The Gaza war, triggered by Hamas' assault on southern Israel, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement. The ongoing conflict has also led to a surge in violence, with the toll on both sides increasing.
While Bethlehem faced a somber Christmas Eve, residents and local businesses expressed hope for peace and stability in the region.
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