Debate Erupts Over Nativity Scenes Featuring Baby Jesus in a Keffiyeh

A global trend depicting Jesus in Palestinian keffiyehs and rubble-filled mangers has drawn criticism for politicizing Christian traditions and erasing Jewish identity.

Nativity displays featuring Baby Jesus swaddled in a keffiyeh and surrounded by rubble have appeared in churches worldwide, including the Vatican, sparking intense reactions.
The trend, initiated by Palestinian pastor Munther Isaac, aims to highlight the suffering of Palestinians by reimagining Jesus as being born in present-day conflict zones.
Critics, including pro-Israel advocates and some Christian leaders, argue the displays distort historical and religious narratives by erasing Jesus's Jewish identity and inserting modern political symbolism.
Supporters of the displays claim they shed light on the hardships faced in Bethlehem and Gaza, aligning the nativity story with contemporary struggles for peace and justice.
The Vatican faced backlash after showcasing a keffiyeh-themed nativity scene, which was later removed, intensifying debates on the intersection of religious tradition and political expression.