The image of Jesus on the keffiyeh scarf, considered the national symbol of Palestine, has disappeared from the Vatican's Nativity scene. Officials did not give a reason, but the nativity scene was widely criticized in the media, and the pope was accused of bias and historical distortion.
One of the Christmas nativity scenes was missing the manger in which the baby Jesus lies, but no official reason is given, but it is likely that the image of Jesus on the national keffiyeh scarf is missing. He said this was probably because the depiction of the movie caused a wave of criticism. Symbol by Palestinians.
Vatican. Nativity scene caused a wave of criticism
The installation on display in Paul VI Hall is not the main and most important nativity scene. It belongs to a series titled “Bethlehem Nativity 2024” designed by Palestinian artists Johnny Andonia and Faten Nastas Mitswasi.
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Immediately after its release, the nativity scene was the subject of criticism on social media. Many Israelis and Jews around the world criticized the Pope's bias toward the Middle East conflict. Some people thought this depiction of Jesus distorted history and showed that he was a Palestinian, not a Jew.
The statue of Baby Jesus is usually placed in the Vatican's manger only on Christmas Eve. However, it is unclear whether the criticized headscarf will also return with the figure.
Pope Francis appeals for peace
The Nativity scene was filmed in the city of Grado in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of northern Italy. In addition to the artists, the audience included representatives of the Palestinian embassy of the Holy See. Pope Francis appealed to the faithful to stop war and strive for peace.
– Enough of wars! Enough of the violence! The Pope called on those gathered to “not forget our brothers and sisters who are suffering the tragedies of war here (Bethlehem) and in other parts of the world.”
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President Francis also expressed strong condemnation of the military industry. – Did you know that one of the most profitable investments is the weapons industry? They make money by killing people. but why? Let's stop war! – he added.
The Pope also had an audience with Mahmoud Abbas, leader of the Palestinian Authority. He presented him with a bronze bas-relief entitled “Peace is a Fragile Flower.” He also spoke about the need to restore peace and condemn the senseless killings of innocent people.
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