Bethlehem's Christmas Revival: Hope Returns After Years of War

• Christmas celebrations return to Bethlehem, Jesus' birthplace, after years of muted festivities due to war.
• Manger Square is now vibrant with lights, markets, and performances, bringing cautious optimism and economic relief.
• The return of festivities follows months of war and a fragile ceasefire in Gaza, giving new meaning to traditional hymns.
• Bethlehem's economy, heavily reliant on tourism, suffered greatly during the conflict, with unemployment soaring.
• Despite renewed celebrations, tensions remain high in the West Bank, and the Christian population continues to shrink.

Why It Matters: Bethlehem celebrates Christmas with renewed hope after years of conflict, offering respite and economic relief.