Normally, at this time of year, Bethlehem is bustling with activity.
The central square in the West Bank will be decorated with a dazzling Christmas tree, next to a stage recreating the nativity scene with long lines of people paying their respects. A choir will sing melodious tunes in English and Arabic.
But this year, according to The Independent, with the devastating war in Gaza, that is no longer the case. The Israeli army has closed the main checkpoint into Bethlehem, citing security concerns, preventing many Palestinians from accessing the famous city. Bethlehem is now just deserted streets, shuttered shops. Manger Square has no famous Christmas tree. The Church of the Nativity, believed to be the birthplace of Jesus and visited by more than a million people every year, is now almost empty. The only sign is the church bells ringing during a mass without any attendees. Christmas here has been cancelled. Residents say Bethlehem has never seen a Christmas like this, even during Covid-19.
According to the Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, Israel’s attacks have killed more than 20,000 Palestinians, three-quarters of them women and children. About 85 percent of the territory’s 2.3 million residents have been displaced and are living with dwindling access to food, medical supplies and water. At the same time, violence has flared in the West Bank. In recent weeks, Israel has carried out frequent strikes on key cities under the pretext of “counterterrorism operations” targeting armed militant groups, including those affiliated with Hamas. Scores of Palestinian civilians, including children, have been killed in the West Bank.
Rabbis in Bethlehem hope the world will do more to end the conflict before the death toll rises. “We need the world to open its eyes and hearts and support us not only with prayers or aid… We need concrete action, we need a ceasefire, we need peace ,” said Father Issa Thaljieh.
VIET KHUE
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