Christmas celebrations returned to Bethlehem after a two-year hiatus due to the war in Gaza, with around 8,000 to 9,000 Palestinian Christians participating in festivities amidst ongoing conflict and economic hardship. The lighting of the Christmas tree and masses at the Church of the Nativity brought hope and joy, yet the atmosphere remained somber due to recent violence, including the death of a Palestinian teenager by Israeli forces. Deputy Mayor Lucy Geries Talgieh noted the city’s contrasting emotions of celebration and grief, reflecting the broader tensions in the region. Despite the challenges, approximately 1,500 people attended the celebrations, marking a significant moment for the community.
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