In a somber turn of events, Bethlehem, the biblical birthplace of Jesus, experienced a stark contrast to its usual vibrant Christmas Eve celebrations due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The cancellation of festivities, including the absence of the iconic Christmas tree and festive lights in Manger Square, left the town resembling a ghost town.
Economic Impact on Bethlehem
Bethlehem heavily relies on tourism, with an estimated 70% of its income generated during the Christmas season. However, with major airlines canceling flights to Israel and the war affecting travel, the town’s economy has suffered a severe blow. Over 70 hotels have been forced to close, leaving thousands unemployed.
Local Businesses and Tourism Hit Hard
Local businesses, typically bustling on Christmas Eve, experienced a significant downturn. Gift shops, usually lively, were slow to open, and few visitors roamed the streets. Ala’a Salameh, an owner of a family-owned restaurant, expressed the difficulty of justifying a festive atmosphere when many people in Gaza are facing dire circumstances.
A Message of Peace Turns Into Sadness
While Christmas in Bethlehem usually carries a message of peace and love, this year it turned into one of sadness, grief, and anger. Bethlehem’s mayor, Hana Haniyeh, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire in Gaza and expressing sorrow for the ongoing conflict.
Impact on West Bank and Gaza
The war’s impact extended beyond Bethlehem to the entire West Bank, affecting daily life and restricting movement. The Gaza war, triggered by Hamas’ attack on Israel, has resulted in a significant loss of life and displacement, creating a humanitarian crisis.
Conclusion
The cancellation of Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem underscores the far-reaching consequences of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The usually bustling town, dependent on tourism, faced economic hardships, reflecting the broader impact of the war on the region.
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