Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank celebrated a return of Christmas cheer on Saturday, lighting a tree for the first time since the war in Gaza began over two years ago.
Adorned with red and gold baubles and topped with a bright red star, the tree stood near the Church of the Nativity on Manger Square, symbolizing hope and resilience. As the tree was illuminated at the end of a two-hour ceremony, cheers rang out and yellow lights twinkled against a cloudy night sky, illuminated by a near-full moon.
“It’s like a symbol for resilience,” said 27-year-old Abeer Shtaya, who traveled 100 kilometers from Salfit with fellow students to join the celebrations. “We want to celebrate and be with our brothers and sisters in Bethlehem.”
Thousands attended the festivities, including Christians and Muslims, many coming from across Palestinian territories and Israel. Families and children filled balconies and rooftops to catch a glimpse of the twinkling lights, while nuns observed from a nearby roof. Despite occasional rain, laughter and smiles filled the square.
“This event didn’t happen for the last two years because of the war, and it’s quite emotional after two years of nothing but war and death,” said 50-year-old Liyu Lu, who traveled from northern Israel.
For the past two years, Bethlehem’s Christmas celebrations were subdued, with no major public events. Pilgrims, especially from Asia, South America, and Eastern Europe, have only slowly begun returning. Fabien Safar, a pilgrimage guide and director of Terra Dei, said some small groups will come this Christmas, with more bookings expected for 2026. “A full recovery may not come until 2027, depending on how the situation in Gaza and Lebanon evolves,” he added.
Bethlehem’s economy, heavily dependent on tourism, has been hit hard by successive crises. Many visitors recalled the difficulties of travel since the 2023 Hamas attack, including long queues at Israeli military checkpoints and increased violence in the West Bank. “Covid was bad, but nothing like the last two years,” said Mike Shahen, who runs a ceramic store on Manger Square.
Despite the challenges, Saturday’s celebrations offered a moment of joy and hope for residents and visitors alike, a reminder of Bethlehem’s enduring spirit amid years of conflict.
AFP
