Bethlehem is empty of joy - no Santa, no celebration

The atmosphere in Bethlehem is heavy with absence.

Christmas celebrations have been cancelled this year, and the thousands of tourists and pilgrims who would normally fill Manger Square are nowhere to be found.

Madeleine, a resident of Bethlehem, says the city is empty of happiness and joy from kids, from Santa, and there is no celebration this year.

The famous Christmas tree, usually in the middle of the square, is not there. There are no carols or Christmas market stands.

Instead, a nativity scene, which shows a newborn Jesus surrounded by big rocks and barbed wire, has been installed as a tribute to the children of Gaza.

Source: BBC