Palestinian rights activist Lucy Thalgieh says while Bethlehem used to be a vibrant during this time of the year, it is now “very empty”.

“Due to the situation (in Gaza) you will mostly find the media here,” she said speaking to Al Jazeera at Manger square.

Thalgieh was one of several activists who called for a cancellation of Christmas festivals in the occupied West Bank, amid the war in Gaza.

“How can we celebrate Christmas when our brothers and sisters in Gaza are living with no food, water, medicine … and displacement,” she added.