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Christmas cheer will be returning to the historic city of Bethlehem in the West Bank after a two-year pause due to the war in Gaza.

Bethlehem Mayor Maher Canawati announced that festivities will return starting Dec. 6, with a Christmas tree lighting in famous Manger Square.

"From the heart of Bethlehem, the birthplace of Christ , the city of peace — once again, we ignite the flame of hope and raise our prayers for peace," said the mayor in a video posted to Instagram.

HISTORIC ITALIAN VILLAGE CREDITED FOR FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND CHRISTMAS NATIVITY SCENE DRAWS CROWDS FOR 800 YEARS

"Let us celebrate together the message of Christmas," he added. " Glory to God in the highest — on earth, peace, goodwill to all. Bethlehem keeps

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