FINDING HOPE
The resumption of festivities have brought renewed optimism that stability might slowly return to a region still grappling with deep political and humanitarian challenges.
Father Issa Thaljieh, a Greek Orthodox priest at the Church of the Nativity, believes it is important for Bethlehem to reclaim its role as a beacon of hope.
“We are in a place that’s like (nowhere else) – a place where Jesus was born,” he said. “It’s so important … to take hope and strength and power from this place, to continue our lives, live joyfully and to spread the message of peace and love.”
The past two years have taken a heavy toll on the occupied West Bank, where violence has escalated since the Gaza war began, leaving more than 1,000 Palestinians and dozens of Israelis killed.
Bethlehem has also suffered severe economic consequences.
The city relies heavily on tourism, and the prolonged absence of visitors has devastated livelihoods.
More than 85 per cent of residents’ income depends on the sector, said Bethlehem Mayor Maher Canawati, adding that the halt in tourism plunged the city into a “catastrophic” situation.
Despite lingering uncertainty, Canawati said resuming Christmas festivities was essential.
“We are ready to receive everybody, and the hotels are all open,” he said.
“The people are waiting. Restaurants, shops, workshops, and churches and holy sites are also ready to receive everybody.”