West Bank Christian clings to faith as war destroys homes and jobs
by Heather Preston, Premier:
A Christian living in Bethlehem has spoken of the importance of his faith to see him through the horrors of war as communities lose their homes, loved ones and livelihoods amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Speaking to Catholic charity, Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) Rony Tabash, a shop owner in Bethlehem’s Manger Square, described how the current violence is affecting the lives of Christians in the West Bank.
“The situation is terrible; it’s not easy at all. Every day, new challenges arise. I’ve never experienced anything like this before, never! It’s a war, not like a war, it is a war,” he said.
Tabash explains that the conflict has dramatically impacted his business, as the usually bustling tourist spot is now completely deserted.
“There are no pilgrims – everything is empty, there’s no one. And they say it will last until Easter.”
Bethlehem’s economy relies heavily on religious tourism to sustain local businesses and the recent conflict has affected everything from hotels and restaurants to souvenir stands. As a result, many families have been left jobless and homeless.
On Tuesday, Israel launched air strikes towards a refugee camp in Gaza. Israel Defence Force (IDF) said it was in pursuit of Hamas commander Ibrahim Biari. The IDF have confirmed he died in the strike that injured and killed hundreds more.
“These days, there are bombs in the sky over Bethlehem – children are scared, my kids don’t want to be separated from our side,” Tabash said.
Read also: In Lebanon, a Christian village hopes for the best and plans for the worst, Premier
Related Posts
Tags
Share This
