Bethlehem Municipality Holds Expanded Coordination Meeting to Finalize Preparations for Christmas Celebrations 2026–2027

Bethlehem Municipality held an expanded coordination meeting at City Hall on November 11, 2026, bringing together representatives of security agencies and partner institutions to discuss the preparations and arrangements for the upcoming Christmas celebrations 2026–2027, ensuring that all festivities take place in a safe and organized manner.

The meeting was attended by the Mayor of Bethlehem, Mr. Hanna Hanania, the Governor of Bethlehem, Mr. Mohammad Taha Abu Alia, heads of security agencies, and His Eminence Metropolitan Vindictus, Patriarchal Vicar of the Greek Orthodox Church. Also in attendance were members of the Municipal Council, representatives of the Joint Operations Room, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, clergy, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, scout groups, partner institutions, and the Municipality’s Public Relations and Media Department.

At the beginning of the meeting, Mayor Hanania presented this year’s Christmas celebrations program, highlighting the planned activities and ongoing preparations. He reaffirmed the Municipality’s readiness to welcome residents, visitors, and pilgrims, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts among all relevant institutions to ensure a successful festive season. He also stressed the Municipality’s commitment to organizing celebrations that reflect Bethlehem’s religious and historical significance, while conveying a message of peace and life from the birthplace of Christ to the world, despite the challenges facing the city.

For his part, Governor Abu Alia affirmed the readiness of security agencies and relevant institutions to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the celebrations. He emphasized the importance of building on previous experiences to achieve significant improvements in coordination and organization this year.

The Bethlehem District Police Chief stressed the importance of active community participation and cooperation in ensuring the success of the celebrations. He highlighted the need for close collaboration among security agencies, scout groups, and relevant institutions to maintain order and facilitate the movement of participants and visitors.

The meeting also addressed the security and organizational plan, including pedestrian and vehicle traffic management, the deployment of personnel at entrances and roads leading to Manger Square, and arrangements to facilitate the movement of official delegations, scout groups, and media representatives. Participants further discussed mechanisms for effective field coordination among the relevant authorities.

Representatives of participating institutions also discussed logistical requirements and organizational arrangements, proposing practical measures to address potential challenges and strengthen overall preparedness. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to maintaining close coordination and following up on the agreed arrangements to ensure safe, well-organized Christmas celebrations that reflect Bethlehem’s significance and warmly welcome residents and visitors alike.