Staff Reports
In Bethlehem, the echoes of war in Gaza continue to cast a shadow over the Christmas season, dampening the traditional celebrations that once adorned the city with joy. Instead of vibrant processions, the streets witnessed a solemn march where even the spirited Boy and Girl Scouts moved forward in silence, devoid of the usual festive fervor. What was once a lively parade now felt almost deserted, with only a handful of observers and guards present, a stark departure from the usual.
Children’s Bethlehem parade becomes another symbolic casuality of war: ‘We want life not death’ https://t.co/vVf8R0WJOX pic.twitter.com/g2Al7IqVUe
— New York Post (@nypost) December 24, 2023
Amidst banners advocating for peace, a cause universally embraced, the atmosphere lacked its customary vibrancy. The revered journey of the Catholic patriarch from Jerusalem to Bethlehem unfolded quietly, contrasting sharply with the exuberance of bygone times. Even the iconic Church of the Nativity, synonymous with Christmas, bore the unfortunate semblance of a construction zone, concealed under tarpaulins and debris.
Compounding this, the persistent conflict has dealt a severe blow to Bethlehem's tourism sector. The mayor's lamentations reflect the stark reality of a complete cessation of tourism since the onset of war. The absence of visitors translates into a financial drought for local enterprises, evolving from a mere tragedy to a full-blown catastrophe.
For Rony Fakhouri, managing the Dar Al Majus hotel, the losses in revenue are palpable. The downturn has also impacted his other employment as a night-shift manager, exacerbating the hardships endured by the populace. Consider the plight of Jack Issa Juqman, whose family's wood-carving shop, a venerable establishment spanning two centuries, had to release nine employees—a poignant testament to the economic fallout.
Projections by the Palestinian Ministry for Tourism paint a grim picture, foreseeing a staggering $200 million blow to the economy, casting Bethlehem into an arduous struggle. The collateral damage of this conflict extends beyond political turmoil, wreaking havoc on the cherished traditions of Christmas. As Bethlehem weathers these hardships, spare a thought for its inhabitants, for they are enduring a profound and genuine struggle.
