Gaza Christians pray for end of ‘death and destruction’

In the Israeli-occupied West Bank city of Bethlehem, Christmas celebrations were subdued due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Despite the absence of Christmas decorations at the Church of the Nativity, some, like Jerusalem resident Hisham Makhoul, found solace in spending the holiday in the holy city. Amid prayers for peace, Archbishop Pierbattista Pizzaballa expressed hope for a better future, emphasizing resilience and the desire for a ceasefire in Gaza. Full Article

Palestinian security forces were deployed around the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem as Christmas preparations were subdued due to the ongoing war in Gaza. The city's traditional festive decorations and bustling crowds were absent, reflecting a somber mood as prayers and religious ceremonies took precedence over celebrations. The lack of tourists and business, along with increased violence and movement restrictions, have greatly impacted the local economy and residents' daily lives in the predominantly Muslim...

During the winter season, Saadiyat Island offers a mix of festive cheer, cultural wonders, and luxurious celebrations with events like gala dinners, themed brunches, and live performances. Highlights include Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island and Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, as well as festive activities at Saadiyat Beach Club and Bubble Planet. The Saadiyat Nights Concert Series also features performances from renowned artists like Michael Bublé and...

In a survey of EMEA CFOs and CIOs by Rimini Street, Inc., it was found that 86% of respondents reported a strengthened relationship, with 43% of CFOs attributing this to improved business outcomes. CIOs in the region are investing in emerging tech to combat rising IT costs, with 42% focusing on this approach. However, only 19% of CFOs are satisfied with the results of their technology investments, highlighting the need for effective collaboration and strategic...

Congressman Mike Waltz, nominated by President Trump as national security advisor, emphasized US priorities in Syria: maintaining support for Kurdish-led forces guarding ISIS detainees and ensuring Israel's border security. Waltz commended Israel's military actions in Syria and highlighted the US-Gulf partnership dynamic as another key interest. He expressed optimism about potential Israel-Saudi normalization, linking it to efforts to secure the release of American hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and improve the situation in the...

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed lawmakers of progress in negotiations to secure the release of hostages in Gaza, following talks between Israel and Hamas mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the US. Netanyahu assured families of hostages that efforts would continue until all are brought home, amidst skepticism and accusations of stalling. The ongoing conflict has faced challenges including ceasefire establishment and post-war governance, with Netanyahu vowing not to end the war until Hamas is...