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Christmas Returns to Bethlehem Amid Ongoing Struggles for West Bank Residents

KVIA•Thursday, December 25, 2025 at 1:23 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

Christmas celebrations resumed in Bethlehem after a two-year pause, yet the joy is marred by the ongoing hardships faced by Palestinians in the West Bank under Israeli occupation. Morning mass at the Church of Nativity saw limited attendance due to military checkpoints and economic barriers. In 2025, over 30,000 Palestinians were displaced, marking a significant humanitarian crisis. The situation has worsened with record demolitions of homes and expansion of Israeli settlements, which are deemed illegal under international law. This year, at least 233 Palestinians, including 52 children, have been killed amidst escalating violence and military operations.

Key Details: • Morning mass held at the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem on Thursday. • Over 30,000 Palestinians displaced in the West Bank in 2025. • 233 Palestinians killed in the West Bank this year, including 52 children. • Israeli cabinet approved 19 new settler outposts this month. • International law considers Israeli settlements illegal.

christmas israel settlements palestine humanitarian-crisis

People & Organizations

Bezalel SmotrichWest BankPeace NowMustafa BarghoutiAngelita CareddaBethlehemUnited Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian AffairsNorwegian Refugee Council

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