Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, were cancelled this year due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The festive lights and giant tree that normally adorn Manger Square were absent, and tourist numbers had plummeted. Tourism accounts for 70% of the town’s income, making the cancellation a severe blow to its economy. Unemployment rates are also high, with over 50% of residents out of work.
Mayor Anton Salman expressed his desire for peace and hope during Christmas, but urged the world to take action to end Palestinian suffering. The war in Gaza has deterred tourists and pilgrims, while violence in the West Bank has resulted in the deaths of over 800 Palestinians and dozens of Israelis. The conflict has also restricted movement in and out of Bethlehem and made it difficult for Palestinians to work in Israel.
The economic impact is significant, with the tourism industry contracting by a quarter and unemployment rates soaring. The Palestinian Finance Ministry reports that unemployment rates are higher in Bethlehem than elsewhere in the West Bank. The situation is expected to worsen unless the international community takes action to address the underlying issues driving the conflict.
Source: https://www.newser.com/story/361516/the-war-has-killed-bethlehem-tourism.html