Subdued Christmas Season In Bethlehem, West Bank

BETHLEHEM, WEST BANK - DECEMBER 23: A man stands at the gas station near the separation wall on December 23, 2023 in Bethlehem, West Bank. Last month, Christian Palestinian leaders here called off public Christmas celebrations, citing the effects of the ongoing war in Gaza. Regarded by Christians as the birthplace of Jesus, Bethlehem is usually bustling with foreign tourists this time of year, with streets full of holiday decoration and vendors selling ornaments and festive figurines. Israel's war against Hamas that was sparked by the Oct. 7 attacks has also made life more volatile in the West Bank. Israeli forces here have stepped up raids on alleged militants, police have clashed with protesters, and there has been a rise in violent attacks on Palestinians by Israeli settlers. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)