A sad Christmas in Bethlehem as Palestinians mourn for G-a-z-a

Bethlehem in the West Bank has cancelled all Christmas festivities this year as a sign of solidarity toward the people of Gaza. 

Instead of the usual festivities, the municipality of Bethlehem has organized an artwork called “Nativity under the Rubble” in Manger Square, where an adorned Christmas tree usually stands. The decision comes as an expression of solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza, and the event was inaugurated by Rula Maayah, the Palestinian Minister of Tourism, and Hana Hananiyeh, the Mayor of Bethlehem, on Saturday night.

“This is a message to the whole world that the whole world is celebrating Christmas, but not Bethlehem. This year, Bethlehem is celebrating Christmas differently with a message to the world that Palestine is suffering. That Bethlehem is suffering. That Bethlehem is celebrating Christmas from the rubble. Not like all other people in the world,” Rula Maayah said.