Somber feeling prevails as Christmas celebrations halted in Bethlehem due to Israel-Hamas war

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: In a sharp contrast to the festivities of Christmas across the globe, the celebrations are low key in Bethlehem, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

In the town situated south of Jerusalem in Palestine, the mood is somber and celebrations have been halted, as the nation's war with the neighboring country, Israel, rages on.

ABC News foreign correspondent Britt Clennett joined the co-hosts of 'Good Morning America' from the town itself during the Christmas Eve episode to discuss the present situation in the iconic location.

Re-imagination of nativity scene

Standing inside a Lutheran Church that bore no signs of any traditional Christmas decorations, Clennett showed viewers that a nativity scene had been set up to demonstrate the current state of Palestine.

Instead of lying in a manger surrounded by farm animals, here baby Jesus was resting on a pile of rocks.

"It's meant to represent Gaza… Symbolizing Jesus entering the world in a pile of rubble," explained Clennett, adding, "Quite a powerful statement."

How is Jerusalem looking ahead of Christmas 2023?

"Usually at this time of the year, (Jerusalem) will be inundated with thousands of tourists and pilgrims from all around the world, to visit the place where Jesus was born," stated Clennett

However, the scenario in 2023 could not have been any more different.

"This year, as the death toll soars in Gaza, there is a somber feeling here in Bethlehem. The streets are empty, many Christmas events (have been) canceled," she continued.

"In fact, Christmas itself appears to be canceled here. This is very much a city in mourning."

Voice of the locals

The Reverend of the church where Clennett was present reportedly told her that if Jesus was born today, he would be born under rubble.

Others living in the area have stated, "It's really impossible to be joyful and feel the Christmas spirit when there is so much death and destruction taking place."

The report mentioned that more than 20,000 people have been killed in Gaza as of Christmas Eve 2023, according to the Palestine Health Ministry run by Hamas.

"More than 90 people were killed in airstrikes on two homes over the weekend, including dozens from just one extended family," stated Clennett.

Reports have also emerged of a 13-year-old boy being shot and killed in an Israeli drone attack while being inside a hospital.

"These stories and victims are very much in the front of mind in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve," she concluded.