Christmas festivities come back to Bethlehem following 2 years of conflict in Gaza

BETHLEHEM, West Bank For the last two Christmas seasons, John Jukas family-run eatery sat silent, reflecting the somber atmosphere in Bethlehem. On Saturday evening, however, the restaurant was alive with families, glowing under red festive lights, signaling a hopeful revival in the Palestinian city after the conflict in Gaza.

Christmas celebrations are gradually returning to the historic birthplace of Jesus, situated in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. While a fragile ceasefire continues in Gaza, local residents view the holiday season as a sign of potential peace after years of turmoil.

Its not like before the war, said Juka, 30. But it feels like life is coming back.

Economic Significance of Tourism

Bethlehem, a city with a Muslim majority, has long relied on Christmas tourism and religious pilgrimage as key economic drivers. According to local authorities, around 80% of residents depend on this sector, with benefits extending to communities across the West Bank. Mayor Maher Nicola Canawati explained that visitors support a wide range of businesses, from butchers to supermarkets, creating a ripple effect throughout the city.

This economic lifeline was severely disrupted after the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and Israels subsequent military operations in Gaza. Major Christmas events were canceled, unemployment soared from 14% to 65%, and around 4,000 residents left Bethlehem seeking work. A recent UN report described the West Bank as facing its worst economic downturn on record due to ongoing military actions.

A City Seeking Renewal

With the easing of hostilities, Bethlehem authorities and residents are aiming to revive the festive spirit. We decided to reignite the spirit of Christmas and hope, the mayor said. This sends a message that we Palestinians cherish life and aspire for peace.

Saturday saw crowds gather at Manger Square, where a massive Christmas tree illuminated the area near the site revered as Jesus birthplace. Families celebrated together, supported by a visible police presence ensuring safety. For Jukas family, who have struggled to keep their restaurant running since 1979, the return of visitors felt like a long-awaited breath of relief.

As ceasefire talks progressed in August, the Juka family observed more tourists on the streets and decided to reopen their restaurant. Tourist numbers in November reached the highest level since the conflict began, with hotels expecting around 70% occupancy for the Christmas season, although most attendees were local rather than international visitors.

Lingering Tensions in the West Bank

Despite the celebrations, regional tensions remain. Residents like 29-year-old Issa Montas note that ongoing military raids and settler violence continue to cast a shadow over the festivities. On the same day as the Christmas gathering, Israeli forces reported killing two Palestinians in Hebron following an alleged attack on soldiers, highlighting the fragile security situation.

Travel is still challenging due to military checkpoints, and settler attacks have reached record levels in recent months. Montas expressed frustration at the lack of accountability but still found reason for cautious optimism. This celebration is not just for us. Its for everyoneChristian, Jewish, Muslim, he said. This Christmas belongs to all.

Author: Natalie Monroe