Bethlehem, the historic city in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, experienced a somber Christmas Eve this year. The usually bustling streets were deserted, stores were shuttered, and the mood was heavy with the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In the heart of the city's central Manger Square, a poignant Nativity scene stood amidst rubble and barbed wire, symbolizing the harsh reality faced by many today.

Munther Isaac, the pastor at the Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church in Bethlehem, shared a thought-provoking perspective: "If Jesus were to be born today, he would be born in Gaza under the rubble." Isaac's words resonated with many, as the scene depicted in the manger mirrored the current state of affairs – a child under the rubble, destroyed homes, and displaced families.

Traditionally, Bethlehem would be filled with revelers and pilgrims from all over the world, eager to visit the Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO world heritage site. However, this year, the usually bustling streets were eerily quiet. Only a few Palestinians attended a candlelight Christmas vigil, offering prayers and hymns for peace in Gaza instead of partaking in the usual celebrations.

The impact of the ongoing conflict is felt not only in Gaza but also in Bethlehem. Richard Tabash, the owner of a shop selling Christian souvenirs, lamented the lack of customers since the beginning of the hostilities. His 9-year-old daughter, Sofia, expressed the family's decision to forgo decorations due to the war and the loss of innocent lives.

The situation in Gaza, less than 50 miles away, continues to worsen. A funeral held on Monday paid tribute to numerous Palestinians who lost their lives in Israeli strikes on the al-Maghazi refugee camp. The exact number of casualties remains unverified, but health officials estimate that over 20,000 civilians, including many women and children, have perished since the conflict escalated on October 7th.

Despite mounting pressure from international entities to minimize civilian casualties, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that there was "no choice" but to push further into Gaza until achieving "total victory" over Hamas. Israel's military operations in the strip appear to be intensifying, with reports of joint combat actions by the navy, ground forces, and airstrikes.

While the focus on Gaza consumes the attention of the world, the traditional joy and celebration of Christmas in Bethlehem have been overshadowed. The juxtaposition of the Nativity scene amidst the rubble serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the Palestinian people during this holiday season. As the conflict rages on, the hope for a peaceful resolution and the season of joy remains distant for those caught in the crossfire.

Title: Bethlehem's Christmas Eve Somber as Gaza Conflict Eclipses Joyous Tradition