The city of Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, will be removing Christmas decorations from public areas in solidarity with Gaza as Israel continues attacks in Gaza in response to the war initiated by Hamas’ previous terrorist onslaught.
Bethlehem, an ancient city located in the West Bank, declared via social media and official spokespeople that decorations installed in previous years are being removed amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
“Bethlehem Municipality crews announced the dismantling of Christmas decorations installed several years ago in the city’s neighborhoods and removing all festive appearances in honor of the martyrs and in solidarity with our people in Gaza,” the city wrote on Facebook, according to the Jerusalem Post. … Read more
Despite the significance of Bethlehem to Christians and its high religious tourism from the faithful during the Advent season, the city is majority Muslim.
The Christian population of Bethlehem has been in steady decline since the mid-20th century.
In 1950, Christians made up over 80% of the local population, but now hover around 10% in a Muslim-dominated region.
You must be logged in to post a comment.