Ongoing Gaza War Casts a Pall Over Christmas Celebrations in Bethlehem and Jerusalem

Residents Feel the War's Effects Acutely as Tourism Plummets and Christian Leaders Call for Prayer and Advocacy for War Victims

Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem and Jerusalem are subdued this year due to the ongoing war in Gaza, with many festivities cancelled and a somber mood prevailing.
The war, which began on October 7 in response to a surprise attack by Hamas on Israel, has resulted in the death of about 20,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.
Despite the war's distance from Bethlehem, residents feel its effects acutely, with restrictions on movement, economic fallout, and concern for family and friends in Gaza.
The war has also severely impacted tourism, a significant source of income for the area, with the number of foreign visitors plummeting since the conflict began.
Christian leaders in the region have called for a focus on prayer and advocacy for the victims of the war, rather than festive activities.