The traditional Christmas tree in Bethlehem, located in the occupied West Bank, was illuminated for the first time in two years. Public Christmas celebrations had been suspended due to the Gaza conflict.
Mayor Maher Canawati of Bethlehem stated that the suspension of festivities negatively impacted the local tourism-dependent economy. He acknowledged varying perspectives on resuming celebrations while conflict-related suffering continues in Gaza. Canawati described the resumption as a "light of hope."
The tree lighting in Manger Square was attended by local residents, including both Christians and Muslims, and a limited number of international tourists. Public spaces are now decorated, and events such as Christmas bazaars and children's parties have been advertised.
Nadya Hazboun, a local jewellery designer, expressed satisfaction regarding the return of the tree and tourists. Neighboring towns, Beit Jala and Beit Sahour, are also scheduled to light their Christmas trees.
Hotels in the area, previously experiencing low occupancy, have reported an increase in bookings from Palestinian citizens of Israel and some foreign visitors. A tourist from Russia, Angelica, noted reduced crowds compared to previous visits.
Despite the return of festivities, souvenir shops have reported minimal business, and tour guides near the Nativity Church remain largely inactive. Guide Hamza attributed low tourist numbers to perceptions of ongoing danger, emphasizing the city's reliance on tourism.
Unemployment in Bethlehem has risen significantly 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 reliance on tax revenues collected by Israel has been affected by Israel's withholding of approximately $1.76 billion in funds. 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.