Bethlehem nativity scene shown with rubble and razor wire
Christians in Bethlehem have been holding a muted celebration to mark Christmas amid the ongoing Israel Gaza war.
Worshippers lit candles and prayed at the nativity scene, with the figures standing amid an installation of rubble and razor wire, outside the Church of the Nativity in Manger Square in Bethlehem.
In previous years, Christmas in Bethlehem has seen decorations of a tree and festive lights.
This year however, organisers called on their congregations to forget the customary celebrations, while still upholding the spiritual aspects of Christmas.
