• For the first time since 2022, Bethlehem's Christmas tree is lit, symbolizing hope amid ongoing conflict.
• The event saw thousands of attendees from across the West Bank and Israel, emphasizing community resilience.
• While joyful, celebrations are tinged with sorrow due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
• Mayor Maher Canawati stresses the need for continued tourism to revive the local economy.
• Reports indicate a significant drop in tourism affecting local businesses, with hopes pinned on the holiday season for recovery.

This year marks the first Christmas tree lighting in Bethlehem since 2022, restoring a much-needed sense of hope and joy amidst the challenging backdrop of ongoing conflict in Gaza. On December 6, the 20-meter tree was illuminated in Manger Square, with thousands of Palestinians from the West Bank and Israel gathering to witness the event. According to reports, cheers erupted as the lights were turned on, symbolizing a much-anticipated return to public celebrations after years of silence due to the war BBC, Channel News Asia, Al Jazeera, Reuters, and Al Jazeera.

The lighting of the Christmas tree was not just a festive occasion but also embodied the yearning for peace and economic recovery during a time of great hardship. Mayor Maher Canawati described the event as a message of resilience, stating, “The wound of Gaza is our wound… the light of Christmas has no meaning unless it first touches the hearts of the afflicted, and the oppressed all over Palestine.” This sentiment resonated throughout the gathering, highlighting both joy and ongoing sorrow from the conflict Channel News Asia, Al Jazeera, Reuters, and Al Jazeera.

Despite the festive atmosphere, residents remain acutely aware of the economic challenges that have plagued Bethlehem since the onset of the Gaza conflict. Shops and restaurants in the city continue to suffer, with many establishments reporting a drastic drop in income due to reduced tourism. Business owners expressed their struggles, citing a near-total collapse of the tourism sector, which is vital for the local economy. The Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce indicated that visitor numbers have decreased by over 90% compared to previous years, resulting in daily losses of approximately $1.5 million BBC, Channel News Asia, and Al Jazeera.

During the Christmas celebrations, many gathered to sing hymns and express their longing for a peaceful future, albeit in a more subdued manner due to the somber context of the world events. The community hopes that the Christmas season will rejuvenate tourism, as Bethlehem gears up to welcome local visitors from throughout the West Bank and Israel. Some community initiatives aim to facilitate travel despite the numerous checkpoints and military restrictions that have been imposed in recent years Reuters and Al Jazeera.