Bethlehem Braces for Subdued Christmas Amid Israel-Hamas War

Ongoing conflict severely impacts tourism-dependent economy, leaving thousands unemployed and hotels closed.

Due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, Bethlehem, the traditional birthplace of Jesus, is preparing for a subdued Christmas with no festive lights or Christmas tree in Manger Square.
The cancellation of Christmas festivities, which usually attract thousands of visitors, is a significant blow to Bethlehem's tourism-dependent economy, already struggling due to the war.
Since the war began on October 7, access to Bethlehem and other Palestinian towns in the Israeli-occupied West Bank has been challenging, further impacting the local economy.
Major airlines have canceled flights to Israel, forcing over 70 hotels in Bethlehem to close and leaving about 6,000 employees in the tourism sector unemployed.
Despite the cancellation of Christmas festivities, religious ceremonies will still take place, including a traditional gathering of church leaders and a Midnight Mass where prayers for peace will be offered.