In Bethlehem, the city traditionally recognized as the birthplace of Jesus, local authorities have decided to dismantle Christmas decorations as a gesture of solidarity with Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The decision, communicated through social media and official channels, includes the removal of festive decorations previously set up in various neighborhoods of the city.
Bethlehem’s municipality shared on Facebook their initiative to take down the Christmas decorations, as reported by the Jerusalem Post. This move is intended to honor the “martyrs” and stand in solidarity with the people of Gaza amid the escalating tensions with Israel. A city spokesperson further elaborated on the decision in a statement to the Telegraph, citing the inappropriate nature of celebrations during a time of tragedy and conflict in Gaza and the West Bank. They mentioned the somber mood among the people, marked by sadness, anger, and frustration due to the ongoing violence and killings in Gaza.
Bethlehem, a city of great religious significance, particularly to Christians, has a Muslim majority population. The city has witnessed a significant decline in its Christian population since the mid-20th century, which once accounted for over 80% of the local population but now is estimated to be around 10%. Various factors, including persecution, religious harassment, and lower birth rates, have contributed to the dwindling number of Christians in Bethlehem and the West Bank.
The broader Christian community in Israel, where Bethlehem is located, constitutes a small percentage of the total population. According to the Israel Central Bureau of Statistics, there are around 185,000 Christians in Israel, making up just under 2% of the country’s total population.