Bethlehem Mayor: This Year’s Christmas Sends a Message of Steadfastness Amid Intensifying Siege and Settlement Expansion

Bethlehem Mayor Maher Qanawati emphasizes that this year’s Christmas celebrations carry a vital message of steadfastness and hope for Palestinians facing immense challenges, including the ongoing siege and expanding settlements. He highlights the shared suffering across all Palestinian areas, particularly in light of recent events in Gaza, and stresses the importance of remaining rooted in their homeland despite pressures to emigrate. The city is working to revive its tourism sector, which has been severely impacted, and is actively promoting Bethlehem’s historic and religious sites to both international and domestic audiences.

Qanawati detailed meetings with Pope Francis and the US ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, where he conveyed the realities of life under occupation, including settlement activity and restrictions on movement. He expressed satisfaction with the positive response from both, particularly the ambassador’s encouragement for tourism. The municipality’s “Yalla to Bethlehem” campaign and the Christmas tree lighting ceremony were designed to send a message of resilience to the world and inspire hope among Palestinians.

Ultimately, Qanawati’s message is one of determination and a call for global support. He urges Palestinians to participate in Christmas celebrations and reaffirms Bethlehem’s commitment to remaining a beacon of hope and a voice for justice, even amidst ongoing hardship and the threat of displacement. He also highlighted the importance of advocating for the release of Palestinian prisoners and addressing human rights violations.

(Source：شبكة فلسطين الإخبارية | Pnn)