Tourism Slumps in Jerusalem and Bethlehem During Israel-Hamas Conflict

Just a fortnight ago, Bethlehem's Church of the Nativity square and its surrounding streets teemed with visitors.

However, following a devastating attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Israel on 7 October, these areas now lie vacant.

Essa Abu Dawoud, a local tour guide, lamented the stagnation of business since the outbreak of the conflict, citing road closures and a dearth of visitors.

Throughout the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories of Gaza and the West Bank, as well as in Israel itself, hotels have seen a drastic decline in occupancy. Moreover, at least six travel companies have suspended tours to popular destinations like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv as the conflict escalates. Two tour operators have deferred their trips until the next year.

Cruise ships are steering clear of Israel's once-vibrant shores, and major airlines have halted their services to and from the country, while governments are striving to repatriate their citizens.

Notably, easyJet has canceled all packages to Tel Aviv scheduled before 22 October, and Virgin Atlantic Holidays has allowed travelers to reschedule for later dates or obtain refunds if their trips were planned before 18 October.

The attack by Hamas, an organization classified as a terrorist entity by the US, EU, and other governments, on Israeli communities on 7 October resulted in the loss of over 1,400 lives. In retaliation, Israel has escalated its attacks on Hamas' stronghold in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of nearly 2,700 people.

 

Source: euronews.com