"Christmas in Bethlehem: A Bleak Season Amidst Conflict and Darkness"
The town of Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank is experiencing a bleak Christmas season due to Israel's assault on the Gaza Strip and economic hardship. The streets are empty, roads leading to the city are sealed off, and Christmas festivities have been canceled in solidarity with Gaza. The tourism sector, which was just recovering from the pandemic, has suffered significant losses, threatening the economy of Bethlehem. Local businesses, including a woodcarving shop that has been passed down through generations, have been severely impacted. The Palestinian minister for tourism estimates losses of $200 million, with Bethlehem being the hardest hit. Religious leaders in Bethlehem have canceled celebrations and created Nativity scenes reflecting the suffering in Gaza, calling for justice and a ceasefire.