Outside a Christian church in Israel on December 23, 2023. Photo: Vu Hoi/VNA in Israel

In Jerusalem, the holy land of Christianity, usually welcomed over 1 million pilgrims from all over the world every year. This year, there were no Christmas trees, no carol concerts, no Christmas fairs or outdoor celebration events. Outside the churches there were no longer any splendid decorative lights.

Foreign tourists are concerned about safety risks in traveling and most international airlines have cancelled flights to Israel. To be able to enter religious sites, especially the Church of the Nativity of Christ, visitors must undergo strict security checks.