Author: France 24

Issued on: 25/12/2023 – 11:39Modified: 25/12/2023 – 12:11 01:58 Palestinian Christians, who make up 2% of the West Bank’s population, observed on Sunday a subdued Christmas Eve in Bethlehem as the town remained under tight surveillance. Since the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza broke out on Oct 7, Bethlehem – a major Christian pilgrimage destination – has been cut off from the world at large. The town’s Christmas festivities were scrapped amid the ongoing conflict, leaving the usually vibrant streets with only a handful of worshippers and tourists. FRANCE 24’s Luke Shrago reports. Read more on related topics: Source link

Pope Francis on Monday deplored the desperate humanitarian situation of Palestinians in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire and the freeing of hostages in his Christmas message. Issued on: 25/12/2023 – 12:53 3 min “My heart grieves for the victims of the abominable attack of 7 October, and I reiterate my urgent appeal for the liberation of those still being held hostage,” the 86-year-old said in his traditional Urbi et Orbi message.”I plead for an end to the military operations with their appalling harvest of innocent civilian victims, and call for a solution to the desperate humanitarian situation by…