For two years during the Gaza war, all public celebrations for Christmas were cancelled in Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank – where Christians believe Jesus was born.
But after the recent ceasefire, the holy city decided that this year the festivities would return as symbolised by the lighting of its traditional, giant Christmas tree in front of the historic Nativity Church.
“It’s been a bad two years of silence; no Christmas, no jobs, no work,” says Bethlehem Mayor Maher Canawati. “We’re all living here from tourism and tourism was down to zero.”
The mayor accepts that the idea of resuming celebrations was not without controversy, as suffering continues in Gaza – including for those in its tiny Christian community, many of whom have relatives in Bethlehem.
“Some may say it’s not appropriate and others say it’s appropriate,” Mr Canawati tells me. “But deep inside my heart, I felt that this was the right thing to do because Christmas should never be stopped or cancelled.
This is the light of hope for us.” Locals – both Christians and Muslims – pose for selfies in front of the tree hung with red and gold baubles in Manger Square. They are joined by a handful of foreign tourists.
Brightly coloured lights now decorate the streets and there are signs advertising Christmas bazaars and children’s parties. (BBC)
