• Bethlehem lights its Christmas tree for the first time since 2022, symbolizing hope for the community.
• The tree lighting ceremony attracted thousands, marking a significant return of public celebrations.
• Local leaders express a desire for peace while acknowledging the ongoing suffering in Gaza.
• The city's tourism sector, severely impacted by recent conflicts, hopes for a revival.
• Residents remain optimistic about the future despite economic hardships and tensions.

On December 6, Bethlehem lit its majestic 20-meter Christmas tree, bringing joy to many for the first time since public celebrations were put on hold during the Gaza war. The event attracted thousands of Palestinians and visitors from across the region, marking a hopeful return to festive gatherings. Mayor Maher Canawati described the situation as one of deep anguish, as the celebration coincided with ongoing suffering for many in Gaza, stating, "The wound of Gaza is our wound, the people of Gaza are our people" according to BBC and Reuters.

The Christmas lights symbolize a glimmer of hope amidst two years of turmoil where Bethlehem's economy has drastically suffered due to the conflict. The city's tourism, a vital economic asset, has been stifled, with reports indicating a 90 percent drop in visitors compared to pre-2021 levels. Shopkeepers and hotel owners expressed optimism that the festivities could attract tourists back and rejuvenate the local economy, as "this is what we did," stated Fares Banak, a hotel owner, highlighting the dire situation of prolonged inactivity, according to Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera.

Randa Bsoul, a Palestinian from Haifa, reflected on the jubilation surrounding the tree lighting, stating that it was a moment to celebrate, adding, "We came to celebrate, watch and enjoy, because for several years we haven't had the chance." The event included subdued festivities, mostly prayers and hymns, in contrast to the usual exuberance seen in past celebrations, underscoring the current sentiment among locals who are navigating a complex landscape of loss and longing, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

The lighting of the tree has also offered a moment of reflection and prayer for peace among attendees, as many expressed a desire for healing not just for Bethlehem but also for Gaza. Optimism remains, with locals expressing hopes that Christmas and the new year will bring a change in circumstances, as Alaa Salameh, a restaurant owner, noted the challenges ahead for families struggling economically but still aiming to keep festive spirits alive, according to BBC and Al Jazeera.