In the birthplace of Jesus, Christmas will not come this year
The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, a world heritage site, attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. This year, in the area where pilgrims from all over the world should gather, there are only parked cars.
Bethlehem, usually packed with tourists and pilgrims at this time of year, is desert. The hotels are empty, some have not opened at all.
Only a few local Christian residents were praying inside the temple.
Outside the Church of the Nativity, a shocking manger has been set updepicting all the horrors of the war in Gaza.
The figures of Mary and Joseph are black, andthe holy infant wrapped in a white shrouda tribute to the dead children, victims of Israel’s war against Hamas in the Palestinian enclave.
The manger scene with ruins around symbolizing the destruction in Gaza and white sheets referring to the dead civilians, has been set up in Manger Square next to the Church of the Nativity.
No Christmas tree, no lights in the city this year: the religious authorities, in solidarity with the Palestinians of Gaza, renounced any “useless celebration”.
In addition, the West Bank is also experiencing an explosion of violence, with more than 290 Palestinians killed by Israeli soldiers or settlers since October 7.
The municipal authorities decided to limit the celebration to a religious level only, with the midnight service.
“The war stopped everything,” explained trader Abdu Shuboh, referring to the fierce fighting raging in the Gaza Strip, with no prospect of a ceasefire on the horizon.
Source :Skai
With a wealth of experience honed over 4+ years in journalism, I bring a seasoned voice to the world of news. Currently, I work as a freelance writer and editor, always seeking new opportunities to tell compelling stories in the field of world news.
