Bethlehem (Quds News Network)- The Bethlehem Municipality announced that this year’s Christmas events will be limited to prayers and religious rituals. The decision aims to show solidarity with Gaza and protest the ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people by Israeli forces.
Bethlehem Governorate emphasized that canceling the celebrations rejects the injustices in Gaza and across Palestine. Mayor Anton Salman confirmed the decision, saying, “We chose to restrict Christmas celebrations to prayers as a stand against the oppression faced by Gaza and all of Palestine.”
Salman strongly condemned the continued assault on Gaza. He criticized the international community’s silence in the face of Israeli massacres. He called for serious and immediate action to end Israeli violations.
The mayor highlighted Bethlehem’s struggles under strict Israeli restrictions since October 7, 2023. He noted that these measures have isolated the city from its Palestinian surroundings, halted tourism, and closed its doors to pilgrims. “Economic hardships have worsened, and residents feel increasingly isolated,” Salman said.
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Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem traditionally peak with a midnight mass at the Church of the Nativity from December 24 to 25 for Western denominations, while Eastern churches celebrate on January 7. Prayers will continue at the Church of the Nativity, believed to stand above the grotto where Jesus was born.
