Over the weekend, Pope Francis unveiled the annual nativity scene at the Vatican, but this year’s display raised eyebrows due to a notable addition: baby Jesus was shown draped in a keffiyeh, a traditional Palestinian scarf.

The scarf, often associated with Palestinian identity, sparked discussions as it connected the scene to ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts.

While Jesus’ birth occurred in Bethlehem around 2,000 years ago, this symbolic gesture seemed to carry contemporary political weight.

A Call for Peace in the Middle East

As part of his message, Pope Francis, who is wheelchair-bound, made a heartfelt plea for peace in the Middle East.

This came weeks after his call for an investigation into what he described as a potential “genocide” in Gaza, in light of the escalating violence and Israeli military actions in the region.

The pope’s request for peace resonated particularly in the context of the region being significant not only to the Jewish people but also to the Catholic faith.

A Star of Bethlehem and an Urgent Plea

During the ceremony, two Palestinian children presented Pope Francis with a “Star of Bethlehem” plaque, engraved with the message, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill to all people,” in both Latin and Arabic.

This moment paved the way for the pope to deliver a passionate speech calling for an end to violence.

“Enough with wars, enough of violence!” he declared, criticizing the arms industry, which he described as profiting from death.

His words were met with cheers as he emphasized his opposition to war.

A Nativity Scene with Palestinian Roots

The nativity scene on display in the Paul VI Hall was designed by Palestinian artists Johny Andonia and Faten Nastas Mitwasi from Bethlehem.

The figures of the Holy Family were carved from olive wood, deepening the connection to the birthplace of Jesus.

The addition of the keffiyeh to the nativity scene sparked both support and controversy, drawing attention to the political undertones of the display.

A Gesture of Solidarity and Controversy

In another move that stirred debate, Pope Francis was joined by Ramzi Khouri, a member of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), who conveyed greetings from Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.

The presence of Khouri, and the association with Abbas, brought further attention to the political nature of the pope’s message.

Abbas has been criticized for controversial remarks, including Holocaust denial and distortion of Jewish history.

Pope Francis and the Gaza Conflict

Pope Francis has consistently voiced concern for the suffering of Palestinians, and in recent interviews, he called for a thorough investigation into the situation in Gaza, suggesting that the events could be classified as genocide.

His comments have sparked reactions, including from Israel’s ambassador to the Vatican, who asserted that the massacre of Israeli citizens on October 7 was a case of genocide.

Meanwhile, the Palestinian Community of Rome has praised the pope’s continued advocacy for Palestinian rights and his calls for adherence to international law.

This year’s nativity scene, and the surrounding statements, underscore the pope’s ongoing efforts to address the complex and sensitive issues surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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