Bethlehem ‘without Christmas trees, without lights’ due to Israel-Hamas war

Gift shops have been slow to open on Christmas Eve, although a few did open their doors once the rain stopped pouring down. There are few visitors, however.

A nativity scene was decorated to honour the victims in Gaza in Manger Square (AP)

Bethlehem, the normally bustling biblical birthplace of Jesus, resembles a ghost town this Christmas Eve, with celebrations called off due to the Israel-Hamas war.

The festive lights and Christmas tree that normally decorate Manger Square are missing, as are the foreign tourists who gather each year to mark the holiday.