In Gaza, a Christmas without a tree
2024-12-25 12:00
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — For Christians in the Gaza Strip, Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, but it is also a time of hardship and deprivation. The Israeli blockade of Gaza has made it difficult for Christians to import Christmas trees, decorations, and other holiday supplies. As a result, many Christians in Gaza have to celebrate Christmas without a tree.
“We used to have a beautiful Christmas tree in our home,” said Mary, a Christian woman from Gaza City. “But now we can’t afford to buy one. The blockade has made everything so expensive.”
The Israeli blockade of Gaza has been in place since 2007. The blockade has severely restricted the movement of people and goods in and out of Gaza. This has made it difficult for Christians to import Christmas trees, decorations, and other holiday supplies.
In addition to the economic hardship caused by the blockade, Christians in Gaza also face religious discrimination. The Israeli government has banned the construction of new churches in Gaza. This has made it difficult for Christians to worship freely.
Despite the challenges they face, Christians in Gaza continue to celebrate Christmas. They gather in their homes and churches to sing carols, exchange gifts, and share a meal.
“Christmas is a time of hope and joy,” said Father Manuel Musallam, the pastor of the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza City. “We may not have a Christmas tree, but we have each other. And that is what Christmas is all about.”
The Israeli blockade of Gaza is a violation of international law. It is a collective punishment of the Palestinian people. The blockade must be lifted so that Christians in Gaza can celebrate Christmas with dignity and freedom.
In Gaza, a Christmas without a tree
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