The Palestinian Authority may impose restrictions on the time of the celebration of Christmas

Although the Nativity of Christ in Bethlehem is held annually with the participation of thousands of pilgrims from around the world, this time the Palestinian Authority may limit the number of participants in the celebrations due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The Palestinian Ministry of Health recommends this to the administration.

In particular, the number of participants in the lighting of the Christmas tree at Manger Square in Bethlehem is recommended to be limited to 50 people. Restaurants and other establishments selling food and drinks are required to close at 21:00 for the entire time of Christmas. Also, the published recommendations suggest limiting the number of people gathered in the Basilica of the Nativity of Christ for general prayer during the service on the eve of the holiday.

Let us remind you that the economy of the city of Bethlehem is largely dependent on the profits of hotels, museums, souvenir shops and restaurants, which peak traffic during the Christmas season. If restrictions for pilgrims at the time of the celebration of the Nativity of the Lord Jesus Christ will still be introduced, the city's economy, which has suffered so much during the pandemic, will be seriously damaged. The Palestinian Authority authorities will have to decide in the coming days to introduce restrictions that are very painful for the budget or to refrain from this step.