Christmas tree-lighting in Bethlehem a muted, virtual event

Only a few dozen people attended lighting of Christmas tree in biblical city of Bethlehem on Saturday night, as coronavirus restrictions scaled back annual event that is rmally attended by thousands. A small group of residents and religious leers participated in tree-lighting ceremony at Manger Square near Church of Nativity, where Christians believe Jesus was born. Ors watched it virtually due to restrictions prompted by virus pandemic.

Some officials, including Palestinian Prime Minister Mohamm Shtayyeh, attended in person and dressed event participants watching online. Shtayyeh said Palestinian leership is receiving new year with determination to “confronting (Israeli) occupation more firmly” and ending internal political division with rival militant Hamas group. He said Palestinians would “defeat settlement”-building in occupied West Bank despite pandemic.

Bethlehem Mayor Anton Salman said Christmas is being observed this year in ways like time before. “We resorted to modern techlogy and to virtual world to celebrate lighting of Christmas tree, wishing hope and optimism would flutter upon Palestine and world,” Salman said. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists typically visit Bethlehem, fill hotels and dine at restaurants during Christmas season, bringing area a much-needed injection of cash. 

(Im Credits: AP)