Bethlehem, located in the West Bank, has resumed its public Christmas celebrations, illuminating the traditional Christmas tree in Manger Square after a two-year suspension. The pause in festivities was implemented due to the Gaza conflict. The event saw hundreds of residents and a limited number of international tourists gather, while local officials acknowledged the economic impact of the suspension on the tourism-dependent city and the varying perspectives on holding celebrations amid ongoing conflict.
Resumption of Celebrations
On [Date of event - not provided in sources, so omit specific date and state "recently"] in Manger Square, Bethlehem's traditional Christmas tree was illuminated, marking the first time in two years that the city has held public Christmas festivities. The celebrations had been suspended since the commencement of the Gaza conflict. Attendees, which included both local Christians and Muslims, along with a limited number of international visitors, participated in the event. Participants were observed singing and dancing amidst illuminated decorations in the square, which is situated in front of the Nativity Church. A person dressed as Santa Claus distributed sweets during the gathering. Public spaces in Bethlehem are now decorated, and events such as Christmas bazaars and children's parties have been advertised. Neighboring towns, Beit Jala and Beit Sahour, are also scheduled to light their respective Christmas trees.
Mayoral Statements and Community Reaction
Bethlehem Mayor Maher Canawati commented on the decision to restart celebrations, acknowledging the ongoing humanitarian situation in Gaza. He stated that the suspension of festivities had negatively impacted the local tourism-dependent economy. Canawati described the resumption as a "light of hope" and expressed his personal view that "Christmas should never be stopped or cancelled." Local residents conveyed a positive response to the reintroduction of the celebrations, with one resident expressing a desire for future improvements. Nadya Hazboun, a local jewellery designer, also expressed satisfaction regarding the return of the tree and tourists.
Economic Impact and Challenges
Bethlehem's economy is largely dependent on tourism. Hotels in the area, which had previously experienced low occupancy rates, have reported an increase in bookings from Palestinian citizens of Israel and some foreign visitors following the resumption of festivities. However, a tourist from Russia noted reduced crowds compared to previous visits. Souvenir shops have reported minimal business, and tour guides near the Nativity Church remain largely inactive. Tour guide Hamza attributed the low tourist numbers to perceptions of ongoing danger.
The city has experienced a significant rise in unemployment over the last two years. Since October 2023, access to work in Israel and Israeli settlements has been restricted for tens of thousands of Palestinian laborers from the West Bank. The Palestinian Authority (PA), which governs parts of the West Bank, has provided only partial salaries to public servants. The PA's financial situation has been affected by Israel's withholding of approximately $1.76 billion in tax revenues it collects on behalf of the PA. Israel has stated that these funds are withheld due to PA payments to Palestinian prisoners. The PA has indicated recent modifications to its welfare system.