BETHLEHEM, a city rich in history and culture, is currently facing a serious crisis. The ongoing Israeli aggression on Gaza and Lebanon has severely disrupted the city’s stability.

This situation has had a major impact on Bethlehem’s economy, especially its crucial tourism sector, and has harmed local industries and the community’s social fabric.
 
Tourism has taken a significant hit, with the number of visitors to Bethlehem in the first nine months plummeting to just 3 per cent of last year’s figures and overnight stays declining to only 2 per cent.
 
The ongoing Israeli aggression has made both international and local travellers hesitant to visit, leaving the tourism industry in dire straits.

The Bethlehem governorate is losing about $1.5 million every day because of this downturn, translating into real struggles for families and businesses that depend on the steady flow of visitors.
 
Challenges for local industries
 
The local handicraft industry, which produces traditional items like olive wood crafts, silver jewellery, ceramics, and embroidered textiles, is also suffering. As tourism declines, so does the demand for these artisanal products, putting many artisans’ livelihoods at risk.

Moreover, 10 hotel projects under construction have been paused due to the conflict, symbolising lost opportunities for job creation and economic growth.
 
Social and economic consequences
 
The effects of these crises extend beyond tourism. Unemployment has skyrocketed, with around 10,000 workers from Bethlehem who were employed in Israel losing their jobs, in addition to 7,800 workers in the local tourism sector.

This means approximately 17,800 households are now without income. Considering the average family size is about 4.8, around 85,000 people in Bethlehem — about 34 per cent of the total population — are struggling to get by without any source of income.
 
As a result, poverty and social distress are on the rise. Many families have had to withdraw their children from universities because they can no longer afford tuition. Economic pressures are forcing some families to leave the country, while others have sold their properties just to survive.
 
A community resilient despite hardship
 
The population of the Bethlehem governorate is around 245,000, with the main cities of Bethlehem, Beit Jala, and Beit Sahour, home to about 66,000 residents, 40 per cent of whom are Christians.

Despite these overwhelming challenges, the people of Bethlehem remain resilient. They continue to hold onto hope for a better future, praying for their freedom and independence. Their dreams reflect a desire to build a state and a bright future for their children, similar to the aspirations of people everywhere.
 
In conclusion, despite the challenges facing Bethlehem, its people’s resilience remains strong. Supporters of Palestine can make a meaningful impact by purchasing products made in the region, such as olive wood crafts, keffiyehs, and locally produced foods.

Your support not only aids artisans and families in need but also helps preserve Palestinian culture. Together, let’s stand in solidarity and uplift the community through our choices. Your contribution can make a real difference.

For more information about traveling to Palestine, you can contact Mr Majed Ishaq, director-general of marketing and communication, Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.

Email: majedishaq@travelpalestine.ps