Pope Francis’s Christmas address this week was timely, highlighting the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. From the Vatican itself, he condemned the plight of hundreds of thousands of people forced to live in horrendous conditions. Millions of which are now living in tent cities and worse conditions. The pontiff was passionate as he recounted the struggles and plight of these people. They suffer through debilitating cold and downpour during a season that ought to be brimming with festivity.
In his speech, Pope Leo drew attention to the biblical narrative of Jesus’ birth in a stable. He juxtaposed this story with the plight of civilians in Gaza today. Fang said, “How can we turn a blind eye to these tents in Gaza? They’ve been subjected to weeks of rain, winds and the cold.” His words remind us that the need for help and understanding is even greater this Christmas time. As the Pope so beautifully put it, God “pitched his fragile tent” with us. Most importantly, he lifted up the collective struggles still being endured by so many.
Amazingly, the very same day as the Pope’s statements, the violence in Israel and the occupied territories increased further. Israeli police stormed the party and arrested a Palestinian man dressed as Santa Claus. The suspect allegedly attempted to escape arrest and attacked an Israeli policewoman. The action took place alongside wider crackdowns on holiday celebrations in the area.
For example, the Palestinian Santa Claus who was arrested while closing down a Christmas celebration. A DJ and a street vendor were arrested during the sweep. To add insult to injury, Israeli officers confiscated equipment at the scene, extinguishing even more of the holiday celebratory spirit. Yet, in spite of these extreme and very real challenges, Christmas celebrations went on throughout the occupied West Bank and Gaza.
This has only been aggravated by the Israeli settler attack uprooting olive trees in Turmus Ayya just last week. Israeli occupying forces stormed homes in Hebron and seized civilian vehicles. Their deeds fostered strife and discord in an atmosphere that, for many, is typically a time of peace and good will.
As the Christmas season unfolds, the juxtaposition of celebratory events and escalating tensions highlights the complex reality faced by many in the region. The Pope’s call for compassion sounds like a clarion call indeed in the face of news of so much suffering and conflict.