For the first time in two years, Bethlehem in theoccupied West Bankis hosting a large public Christmas celebration. The festivities have either been pared down or canceled since theIsrael-Hamas warbegan in October 2023.
On Dec. 24, hundreds descended on the historic city, which Christians laud as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The city and its landmarks attract Christian pilgrims from around the world, with special focus on the Christmas holiday season. The city estimated in 2014 that more than 2 million tourists and pilgrims visit each year, though numbers have waned over the past few years due to the war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.
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The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, was among those who traveled to the city for the celebrations on Dec. 24. He is the top Roman Catholic leader in the Holy Land, and hosted a Christmas service at the Church of the Nativity.
"This year we want a Christmas full of light," Pizzaballa told reporters. "Because this is what we need after two years of darkness, we need light."
He also acknowledged there were still problems "on the ground" but said it was time to "turn the page and look forward."
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U.S. Ambassador to IsraelMike Huckabeealso attended the event with his wife and recorded a video address from the city center's Manger Square, where large religious festivities are often held. The square hosted the large Christmas tree and traditionally acts as the final stop for the Christmas procession.
Bethlehem's mayor, Maher Canawati,told CNNhe thought it was "crucial" to resume the celebrations.
"It was very important for the resilience of the people of Bethlehem," he said. "Because many people almost lost hope."
Kathryn Palmer is a politics reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her atkapalmer@usatoday.comand on X @KathrynPlmr. Sign up for her daily politics newsletterhere.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Bethlehem celebrates Christmas after Israel Gaza war pause