The Dampened Christmas Celebrations in Bethlehem amidst Israel-Hamas Conflict
Christmas celebrations in the Palestinian city of Bethlehem. Known as the birthplace of Lord Jesus Christ have been overshadowed by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The streets are devoid of their usual sparkle and joy darkness and silence prevail instead. The festivities associated with the birth anniversary of Jesus Christ, also known as Christmas, seem to be missing in this strife-torn region. However, Palestinian artist Rana Bishara has made a symbolic statement by showcasing a sculpture of baby Jesus surrounded by thorns inside an incubator outside the Church of Nativity on Christmas Eve.
In contrast to previous years when Bethlehem used to be illuminated with lights and decorated with ornaments during Christmas time, there is a noticeable absence of festive cheer this year. Many churches in Bethlehem have chosen not to display Christmas trees at all. Only one church Evangelical Lutheran Church – has put up a single display featuring Baby Jesus among rubble stones symbolizing the plight faced by Palestinians affected by violence. Reverend Dr Munther Isaac explained that this visual representation highlights the situation faced by Palestinians who lose their lives or homes due to conflicts.
While Israeli control over Palestine has dampened Christmas spirits in Bethlehem Israeli forces continue their offensive against Hamas militants’ tunnel network, resulting in escalating tensions between Gaza City and Lebanon’s Hezbollah group supported by Iran. Recent reports indicate that five bodies were discovered tied up inside one tunnel leading from Gaza into Israel after intense clashes between both sides.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified that Israel would not succumb to pressure from any external powers during its ongoing war against Hamas militants. In media interactions on Sunday evening, Netanyahu stated that he had informed US President Biden about his country’s determination to end the current conflict without obtaining all its objectives.
In response to the Hamas launched ‘Al-Aqsa Flood‘ operation on October 7th, Israel’s military – known as the Israel Defense Forces [IDF] initiated its counter-operation called (Swords of Iron). Hamas’s attack was seen as a retaliatory measure for Israel’s provocative actions at Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem back in April 2023.
The heavy toll taken by this ongoing conflict was evident during the weekend when 14 Israeli soldiers lost their lives. The New York Times reported that among these casualties were members of IDF. In response, Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed to avenge each soldier’s death while refraining from disclosing further details discussed during cabinet meetings.
As Christmas approaches, Bethlehem grapples with subdued celebrations amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict. The birthplace of Jesus Christ is witnessing somber streets instead of joyous festivities. However, Palestinian artist Rana Bishara symbolic artwork serves as a reminder amid this turmoil. Meanwhile, Israeli forces continue their campaign against Hamas tunnels while facing escalating threats from Hezbollah in Lebanon supported by Iran.
The war between Palestine and Israel has cast a shadow over not just Bethlehem but also other regions affected by violence. As we reflect upon this situation, it is important to remember that peace and harmony are essential for all communities to celebrate religious festivals without fear or distress. Only through dialogue and understanding can we hope for brighter days ahead where people can come together to mark occasions like Christmas with true joy and unity.
Disclaimer: This blog article aims to provide an overview of events related to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine during Christmas time in Bethlehem. The views expressed here may not necessarily represent all perspectives involved in this complex issue.
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