US EditionChristmas celebrations return to Bethlehem after 2 years of war in Gaza
A fragile ceasefire has allowed Bethlehem to resume Christmas events, with local tourism rising to 70% hotel occupancy, signaling economic revival after two years of war disruption.
- On Dec. 6, 2025, a 20m Christmas tree was lit at Manger Square, Bethlehem, West Bank, marking the first public tree lighting since 2022 after the recent ceasefire.
- After the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks, Bethlehem tourism sector collapsed, Israel is withholding $1.76 billion in tax revenues from the Palestinian Authority, and public servants received partial salaries.
- At the ceremony, thousands of Palestinians from across the West Bank and Israel cheered shortly before 8pm when the lights turned on, but there were no fireworks; Randa Bsoul said, `We came to celebrate, watch and enjoy because for several years we haven't had the chance.`
- Hotels in Bethlehem reported reservations pointing to around 70% occupancy during Christmas, while John Juka's family restaurant reopened and owners said the crowds felt like a deep exhale after hardship.
- Longer-Term pressures include Gaza's reported death toll above 70,000 and Bethlehem unemployment reportedly rising to 65%, amid Israeli checkpoints and economic strain.
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114 Articles
Bethlehem lit its Christmas tree in the Nativity Square for the first time since the war began in Gaza. The event saw the participation of residents, who gathered to pray for peace and hope that the city would return to being a destination for pilgrims and tourists. The ceremony, symbol of hope and rebirth, represents a moment of unity and desire for normality for a community affected by conflicts. The article Turns on the Christmas tree in Beth…
Bethlehem, in the West Bank, the Holy Land believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, has turned on its Christmas tree lights for the first time since 2022, amid the conflict in the Gaza Strip.
A large New Year and Christmas tree decorated with red and gold ornaments was set up today in Bethlehem in the West Bank, for the first time since the start of the Gaza war.
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