Summary
Thousands of people gathered in Bethlehem's Manger Square for Christmas celebrations after two years of cancellations due to conflict in Gaza. The event featured a giant Christmas tree and a procession led by Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the top Catholic leader in the Holy Land. Many in the area are hoping for a return to normal life, as tourism slowly begins to revive.
Key Facts
- Thousands visited Bethlehem's Manger Square for Christmas celebrations.
- The festivities had been canceled for the past two years due to the conflict in Gaza.
- A large Christmas tree was put up, and a procession was led by Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa.
- Bethlehem's economy relies heavily on tourism, which was greatly affected during the conflict.
- Unemployment in Bethlehem rose dramatically during the war, with a rate jumping from 14% to 65%.
- Residents hope the return of Christmas festivities signals a step towards normalcy.
- Despite the ceasefire in Gaza, tensions and military raids continue in the West Bank.
- Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war, and the Palestinian Authority has limited control in some areas, including Bethlehem.
