Typically, Bethlehem transforms into a bustling hive of activity and commerce during Christmas celebrations. However, this year's conflict has driven tourists and visitors away from the Palestinian city, located in the West Bank occupied by Israel, leaving hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops devoid of customers. Business owners in Bethlehem report a complete absence of visitors, particularly after news of Hamas attacks in southern Israel dominated global headlines since October 7, alongside subsequent Israeli attacks on Gaza and escalating violence in the West Bank.
**Hotels Without Guests**
Joe Cannavaty, owner of the Alexander Hotel, a family-run establishment in Bethlehem for four generations, stated that the hotel is empty. He remarked that this is "the worst Christmas ever," as Bethlehem is closed for the holiday, with no Christmas tree, joy, or Christmas spirit. Situated directly south of Jerusalem, Bethlehem heavily relies on income and jobs from visitors worldwide coming to see the Church of the Nativity.
Cannavaty explained that prior to October 7, his hotel was fully booked for Christmas, to the point he was looking for rooms elsewhere in the city to accommodate those he couldn't take in. Since the war began, all reservations have been canceled, including those for next year. He said they only receive cancellations via email.
Reuters took a tour of the hotel, where empty rooms and an unoccupied restaurant were shown. Cannavaty mentioned that the restaurant used to be full of over 120 people for dinner every night, but now silence pervades the space.
**Escalation of Attacks**
Since the 1967 war, Israel has occupied the West Bank, which Palestinians seek as the center of their future independent state. Israel has established Jewish settlements throughout the territories of the West Bank, which most countries consider illegal. Israel disputes this, citing historical and biblical connections to the land. Several Israeli ministers live in these settlements and support their expansion.
**Church of the Nativity**
There is an unusual quiet around Manger Square in Bethlehem in front of the Church of the Nativity, which is usually a focal point for Christmas celebrations. The area is deserted, as well as nearby streets, with most souvenir shops closed. Rony Tabash, who sells crosses, Virgin Mary statues, and other religious icons in his family shop, passively arranged shelves and goods to pass the time. Tabash noted that nearly two months have passed without any visitors or tourists, and he only opens the store as a way to escape despair. He wishes for life to return to normal.
Alaa Salama, owner of a falafel restaurant, indicated that his establishment operates at just 10 to 15 percent of its capacity, serving local Palestinian families instead of the usual influx of foreign visitors. He explained that he keeps the restaurant open solely because his employees need work, as without it, they would not be able to feed their families. Salama expressed a prayer for peace, stating that Bethlehem is the city where peace was born and thus should be a messenger of peace to the world.
