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12/24/2004 Archived Entry: "Peace on Earth"

Posted by antle @ 03:52 PM EST [Link]

PEACE ON EARTH, GOOD WILL TO MEN?: Some hopeful signs in Bethelem this Christmas as Israel eases travel restrictions into the city to let pilgrims, including Palestinians, pass through more easily.

During more than four years of fighting, Christmas in the traditional birthplace of Jesus has been marked by gloom, military curfews and violence. The town is ringed by Israeli checkpoints and a massive separation barrier.

However, on Friday, troops eased restrictions at roadblocks leading into Bethlehem, allowing Palestinians and foreigners to pass more quickly. Military officials said they expected about 5,000 visitors for the two-day holiday, ans that 280 Palestinians from Gaza came to the city.

Read on.