After two years of war in Gaza, Bethlehem has revived its public Christmas festivities, lighting a tree near the Church of the Nativity in a ceremony attended by thousands. The event, filled with music, laughter, and visitors from across the region, marked a significant moment of hope and unity for the city. Bethlehem's economy, heavily reliant on tourism and religious pilgrims, has suffered greatly during the conflict, with unemployment and poverty soaring as visitors stayed away. Local leaders and residents see the return of celebrations as a message of resilience and a longing for peace, though challenges remain with ongoing tensions and a slow recovery in tourism.