Bethlehem to Light Christmas Tree After Two-Year Hiatus

The city of Bethlehem will light its Christmas tree this year for the first time since 2022. Officials had paused the annual celebration due to the war in Gaza. The tree lighting marks the traditional start of the Christmas season in the city revered as Jesus' birthplace. The event is a major symbol for the local community and pilgrims worldwide. Local authorities decided to hold a quieter ceremony this year. They say the scaled-back event respects the ongoing conflict while maintaining a message of hope.