"Silent Christmas in Bethlehem Amidst Ongoing Destruction in Gaza"

The war between Israel and Hamas, along with the destruction in Gaza, has led to the cancellation of many Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem, a Palestinian city in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The conflict has disrupted tourism, with new Israeli checkpoints making travel more complicated, and the sadness and destruction have dampened the festive spirit. Many Palestinian churches and Christian communities have decided to call off the usual celebrations, focusing instead on the religious aspects of the holiday. Bethlehem, typically bedazzled with decorations and lights, is now dark and quiet, reflecting the somber mood.