Bethlehem illuminates Christmas tree with hopes for economic recovery

After years of hardship caused by ongoing conflicts in Gaza and frequent Israeli military operations in Bethlehem and other West Bank cities, Palestinians have had little reason to celebrate. Public Christmas festivities were canceled for several consecutive years, but Saturday offered a rare moment of joy as crowds gathered in Bethlehems Manger Square, near the Church of the Nativity, to witness the lighting of the Christmas tree for the first time since 2022.

Al Jazeera correspondent Nour Odeh described the event as "a bit of cheer that everyone needed." She noted that the square was filled with families, local dignitaries, visitors from across the West Bank, and even Palestinian citizens of Israel.

Traditionally, Bethlehems Christmas tree lighting ceremonies are lively, featuring dances and songs. This year, however, the celebration lasted about two hours and was more restrained, including hymns and prayers for peace.

The city, revered by Christians as the birthplace of Jesus, is grappling with a deep economic crisis. Many longstanding businesses have closed due to strict Israeli restrictions that have isolated Bethlehem from external markets.

Local business owner Jack Gaccaman explained that some family members have relocated abroad to support those remaining in the city, emphasizing the high costs of living and rent. Hotels such as the Manger Hotel, situated near the Nativity Church, have seen very few visitors in the past two years, with only occasional guests helping them stay afloat.

Hotel owner Fares Banak added, "When you leave something unused for two years, it doesnt function properly anymore. Thats exactly what happened here."

Unemployment and poverty have surged throughout the West Bank. Samir Hazboun of the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce reported that unemployment stands at 34%, while over 40% of the population struggles to meet basic needs.

The city has also experienced a dramatic decline in tourism. The Chamber of Commerce reported a 90% decrease in visitors compared to two years ago, resulting in an estimated daily loss of $1.5 million.

Despite the challenges, Bethlehem maintains a long Christmas season, with December 25 celebrated by Western Christians and January 67 by Armenian and Eastern Orthodox Christians, culminating with the removal of the tree on January 20. Though this years ceremony was quieter, Odeh highlighted that Palestinians see the event as an opportunity to bring joy to children and signal to the world that Bethlehem is open and eager to welcome visitors, hoping to revive the local economy.

Author: Maya Henderson