For the first time since the Gaza war began, Bethlehem's Christmas tree has been lit, symbolizing a return to festive celebrations in the historic city. The move comes two years after all public events were cancelled due to the conflict, leaving a lasting impact on the local economy and tourism industry.
Bethlehem Mayor Maher Canawati acknowledged that resuming celebrations was not without controversy, given the ongoing suffering in Gaza. However, he firmly believed that Christmas should never be stopped or cancelled, serving as a beacon of hope for the community.
The giant tree, adorned with red and gold decorations, stood tall in Manger Square, surrounded by locals and a handful of foreign tourists. Bright lights now decorate the streets, and signs advertise Christmas bazaars and children's parties, signaling a return to the city's festive spirit.
Local jeweller Nadya Hazboun expressed her joy at seeing foreigners in Bethlehem once again and the opportunity to celebrate Christmas in its true spirit. She hopes that this year's events will bring a positive message to the world about what Christmas should be about – peace and hope.
The neighbouring towns of Beit Jala and Beit Sahour are also planning to light their own Christmas trees, further boosting the city's festive atmosphere. Hotels have seen an influx of bookings from Palestinian citizens of Israel as well as some foreign visitors, a rare respite for the struggling local economy.
Tourists like Angelica, a Russian pilgrim on her second visit to the Holy Land, are eager to experience Bethlehem's unique heritage and culture once more. However, she also noted that tourists have been scarce in recent years due to the economic situation and ongoing conflict.
For many Palestinian Christians, this Christmas will be austere, with some families struggling to afford basic necessities. Alaa Salameh, owner of a local restaurant, expressed his concerns about the economic outlook and how it will impact celebrations. Despite these challenges, locals remain hopeful that peace will return, bringing an end to the cycle of violence and allowing for a brighter future.
As tensions still linger across the region, people in Bethlehem are coming together to pray for peace and welcome tourists back to their city, where it is believed Christmas began. The lighting of the Christmas tree marks a small but significant step towards healing and recovery, offering a glimmer of hope for a more peaceful tomorrow.
Bethlehem Mayor Maher Canawati acknowledged that resuming celebrations was not without controversy, given the ongoing suffering in Gaza. However, he firmly believed that Christmas should never be stopped or cancelled, serving as a beacon of hope for the community.
The giant tree, adorned with red and gold decorations, stood tall in Manger Square, surrounded by locals and a handful of foreign tourists. Bright lights now decorate the streets, and signs advertise Christmas bazaars and children's parties, signaling a return to the city's festive spirit.
Local jeweller Nadya Hazboun expressed her joy at seeing foreigners in Bethlehem once again and the opportunity to celebrate Christmas in its true spirit. She hopes that this year's events will bring a positive message to the world about what Christmas should be about – peace and hope.
The neighbouring towns of Beit Jala and Beit Sahour are also planning to light their own Christmas trees, further boosting the city's festive atmosphere. Hotels have seen an influx of bookings from Palestinian citizens of Israel as well as some foreign visitors, a rare respite for the struggling local economy.
Tourists like Angelica, a Russian pilgrim on her second visit to the Holy Land, are eager to experience Bethlehem's unique heritage and culture once more. However, she also noted that tourists have been scarce in recent years due to the economic situation and ongoing conflict.
For many Palestinian Christians, this Christmas will be austere, with some families struggling to afford basic necessities. Alaa Salameh, owner of a local restaurant, expressed his concerns about the economic outlook and how it will impact celebrations. Despite these challenges, locals remain hopeful that peace will return, bringing an end to the cycle of violence and allowing for a brighter future.
As tensions still linger across the region, people in Bethlehem are coming together to pray for peace and welcome tourists back to their city, where it is believed Christmas began. The lighting of the Christmas tree marks a small but significant step towards healing and recovery, offering a glimmer of hope for a more peaceful tomorrow.
. I mean, come on, there are still Palestinians living under Israeli occupation and struggling to afford basic necessities. The fact that some locals might not be able to celebrate Christmas properly is pretty sad 
. And let's not forget the whole Gaza thing, which is still going on and has been for years... like, what's the point of even having a festive season when people are dying or living in poverty? I don't get why we're just ignoring all these problems 
.
. But what really got me thinking is how some people might be struggling financially this Christmas. Like, Alaa Salameh said his restaurant won't be doing great this year 
. That's the harsh reality of things right now. Still, I think it's super cool that locals are coming together to celebrate and welcome tourists back in. Maybe this Christmas tree lighting is just what they need to shake off some hope and positivity 
. We should be supporting these places and people during hard times 
.
The fact that Bethlehem's Christmas tree is being lit again after all these years is just amazing. I mean, who wouldn't want to celebrate the birth of Jesus in the city where it all went down? But at the same time, I can understand why some people might think it's insensitive to be celebrating during a time of war and conflict.
️ It's also great to see the local economy and tourism industry getting a boost. Who wouldn't want to visit Bethlehem during the holiday season?
Just don't forget about the people who are really struggling here.
the ppl in bethlehem r showing so much love & hope by bringin back the christmas tree tho it's a great reminder that christmas is about peace & hope not violence or hate. and btw i'm lowkey hyped 4 the influx of bookings at hotels cuz its def needed 
... like, isnt it a bit insensitive to just keep celebrating while ppl are still struggling over there? And what really gets me is how the tourists are coming back but theres still these families who cant afford basic stuff, like, where's the equality in that?
. The economic impact of the Gaza war is still felt here, and it's disheartening to see families struggling just to afford basic necessities. I'm all for the city coming together to celebrate Christmas, but we need to acknowledge the struggles that many Palestinians face in order to move forward. Still, it's a small step towards healing and recovery, and for that, let's be hopeful 
. I mean, it's not like it's gonna solve everything or anything but you know what? Sometimes it's the small things that make the biggest impact 
.