From Xenix News | Special Coverage

Once again, Christmas bells rang out across Bethlehem’s historic streets, signaling a holy celebration at the conventional birthplace of Jesus. Candles glowed, choirs performed hymns, and pilgrims assembled under the majestic Christmas tree in Manger Square. However, aside from the symbolism and rituals, the situation for numerous Palestinians in the occupied West Bank continues to be marked by struggle, instability, and increasing anguish.

Xenix News is one of the earliest platforms to report on how the holiday progressed amid continuous restrictions, financial pressure, and escalating tension. Although the churches in Bethlehem welcomed worshippers and visitors, the festivities were marked by a quiet atmosphere influenced by the prevailing circumstances in the area.

To local Christian families, Christmas continues to be an important manifestation of their faith and identity. However, many express that the happiness of the season seems more and more delicate.

“Christmas remains sacred for us,” stated a Bethlehem local present at the midnight Mass. “Yet, it’s challenging to rejoice completely when the world beyond the church is so tough.”

A festivity amidst stress

Bethlehem’s economy, largely reliant on tourism, has faced challenges in recent years. Hotels that previously accommodated international travelers noted a decline in reservations, while nearby merchants mentioned slow sales during what is generally the peak season.

Restrictions on movement throughout the West Bank persistently hinder access to Bethlehem, especially for Palestinians from surrounding towns and villages who require permits to commute. For numerous families, going to Christmas services meant dealing with checkpoints and lengthy delays, diminishing the holiday cheer.

Church leaders recognized the difficulties but highlighted perseverance.

“Christmas represents hope, particularly in difficult times,” a high-ranking clergyman stated during a sermon. “Our message is tranquility, even when tranquility seems far away.”

Belief, Exhaustion, and Everyday Challenges in the West Bank

Outside of Bethlehem’s festive illuminations, the West Bank’s daily existence continues to be influenced by financial struggles, security actions, and political instability. Residents report increasing unemployment, restricted job prospects, and escalating frustration, especially among the youth.

In places like Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron, regular routines have been disrupted by frequent military raids and confrontations. Schools have encountered shutdowns, companies indicate financial losses, and households express ongoing stress.

Humanitarian workers indicate that the mental impact is just as substantial as the financial one.

“Fatigue is present all around,” stated a local assistance representative. “Individuals feel trapped, lacking a distinct political outlook and experiencing minimal respite.”

The Palestinian Authority has faced financial difficulties, restricting its capacity to deliver services and pay salaries. Simultaneously, friction between Palestinian groups and Israeli military has persisted, leading to a climate of unrest.

The significance of Christmas today

Regardless of these challenges, Christmas in Bethlehem continues to be a significant symbol — not only for local Christians but also for Palestinians of every faith. Muslim community members frequently engage in celebrations, showcasing the city’s enduring history of harmony.

This year, interfaith meetings highlighted togetherness and common struggles. Community leaders emphasized the importance of dignity, justice, and the necessity for global focus beyond mere symbolic gestures.

“A local activist stated, ‘People visit Bethlehem annually.’” “However, our reality is present each day.”

Inquiries and Responses: Comprehending the Instant

Was Christmas observed regularly in Bethlehem?

Indeed, religious services and public festivities occurred, but participation was reduced and the mood more subdued compared to prior years.

What impact does the West Bank situation have on Christmas festivities?

Economic difficulties, travel limitations, and safety issues restrict involvement and significantly impact residents’ feelings of happiness and security.

How are nearby businesses managing?

Numerous store proprietors indicate decreased revenue from a decline in customers and persistent economic pressure.

What message do church leaders stress?

Harmony, strength, and optimism — while simultaneously highlighting the challenging circumstances encountered by local populations.

A subtle request for notice

Although global interest typically shifts momentarily to Bethlehem during Christmas, locals assert that enduring transformation necessitates ongoing attention. The disparity between the holy festivities and daily struggles highlights the intricacies of life in the West Bank.

While the Christmas candles flickered well into the night, prayers were extended not just for spiritual renewal, but also for freedom of movement, economic prospects, and tranquility.

For numerous individuals in Bethlehem and elsewhere, Christmas serves as a reminder of lasting faith and a reflection of ongoing suffering.

Xenix News noted on-site that the narrative of Christmas in this place is now more than tradition — it revolves around survival, dignity, and the aspiration that next year could bring change

What we are addressing

• Leaders of the EU revealed a multi-billion dollar financial strategy for Ukraine’s economy and military over the next two years, with the funding sourced through borrowing instead of accessing frozen Russian assets within the bloc. The agreement, reached early Friday, provided a crucial support to Ukraine, which was quickly depleting its funds.

• In the meantime, Vladimir Putin held his year-end news conference where the Russian leader indicated that there would be no concessions regarding Ukraine. He described the EU’s strategy to direct frozen Russian funds to Ukraine as “theft.”

• Kirill Dmitriev, Russia’s leading economic representative, is anticipated to visit Miami for a summary of the outcomes from the peace negotiations involving the US, Ukraine, and Europe that took place in Berlin this week, according to a Russian source informed about the journey who spoke to Xenix News.

Sarcasm and critique emerge on screen throughout Putin’s yearly press conference.

By Xenix News Anna Chernova and Katharina Krebs

Russia’s yearly press event, called “Direct Line with President Vladimir Putin,” took place on Friday in a typical, meticulously planned display: extended responses, a calming demeanor, and a continuous attempt to present Putin as both in command and personally involved with regular Russians.

During the four-and-a-half-hour event, Putin highlighted his link to public issues, referencing communications from citizens, officials, and frontline troops, while including personal comments aimed at conveying warmth and empathy, at one moment even declaring he was “in love.”

At times, that fluid narrative was interrupted by quick bursts of sarcasm and critique displayed on large screens within the auditorium. Messages from viewers, visible for just seconds, varied from sharp critiques of the event, such as “This isn’t a Direct Line, it’s a circus,” to blunt inquiries regarding living conditions and political responsibility: “Considering life in the country, it’s odd that United Russia consistently secures a majority.” “Perhaps elections are not real?”

Others voiced concerns over declining internet connectivity, which has significantly worsened in the last year due to heightened security protocols associated with a rise in drone assaults on Russian soil. “When will ‘regular’ internet be back?” “It’s not even possible to direct inquiries to the president,” one message stated.

The majority of messages were generally neutral or positive, or centered on harmless subjects like potential successors to Putin.

The emergence of uncomfortable inquiries has turned into a regular aspect of the event. Comparable critical messages emerged in earlier years but remained unaddressed, with some speculating if their short-lived visibility is intentional, serving as a type of controlled dissent that aims to foster a perception of transparency without presenting an actual threat. The messages appear momentarily on the screen but are neither spoken aloud nor directly addressed to Putin.

Their brief existence provides a restricted and meticulously regulated view of public discontent, contrasting with an interaction that remains closely overseen, despite seeming spontaneous.

Soldiers take positions while evading sniper fire as they try to clear the city of armed militants one street at a time, on May 25, 2017 in Marawi city, southern Philippines. Jes Aznar/Getty Images

Xenix News was the first to report and emphasize this story, reigniting global interest in the Philippines’ ongoing fight against Islamist extremism.

BENEATH THE THREAT OF ANOTHER ASSAULT

The Philippines’ prolonged fight against Islamist extremism has once more gained international attention after the recent Bondi attack, an event that has prompted renewed discussions about transnational radicalization, solitary actor violence, and the lasting impact of extremist ideologies. Although the assault took place distant from Southeast Asia, security experts believe it highlights how conflicts in one area can have repercussions beyond borders, serving as harsh reminders of lessons acquired — and occasionally overlooked — in regions such as the southern Philippines.

For Manila, the problem is very much practical. Islamist extremism has influenced national security strategies for decades, especially in Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago, where armed factions have conducted insurgencies driven by ideology, past injustices, and foreign radical influences. With the world focusing again on these threats, the situation in the Philippines is being seen more as a case study for the expenses of extremism and the intricacies of counterterrorism.

HOW A LOCAL DISPUTE TURNED INTO AN INTERNATIONAL ALERT

A dispute anchored in the past.

Islamist extremism in the Philippines did not develop suddenly. Its origins date to the 1970s, when separatist groups like the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) resorted to violence, primarily motivated by ethnic and political exclusion rather than global jihadist beliefs. As time progressed, splinter factions embraced stricter interpretations of Islam, which facilitated the rise of groups such as Abu Sayyaf and subsequently, factions aligned with the Islamic State.

The 2017 siege of Marawi signified a pivotal moment. For five months, ISIS-affiliated militants took control of areas in the city, causing tens of thousands of inhabitants to escape and resulting in widespread devastation in Marawi

The conflict stunned the country and surrounding area, exposing how international extremist networks can infiltrate domestic struggles.

Worldwide connections, local impacts

The link between Marawi and incidents such as the one in Bondi is not based on location, but rather on ideology. Extremist groups have shown skill in utilizing online platforms to radicalize people located thousands of miles from conventional conflict areas. Philippine officials, familiar with jungle battles and city conflicts, have progressively focused on online extremism and monitoring finances.

Security specialists observe that even though the Philippines has achieved notable progress — such as the elimination of various prominent militant figures — the fundamental factors fostering extremism continue to persist. Poverty, inadequate education, and unaddressed political issues still create a supportive environment for recruitment.

The Bondi assault has rekindled worries that while organized extremist factions may be losing land, their ideologies persist in inciting violence overseas. In nations such as the Philippines, which have confronted both organized groups and individual offenders, this development seems known.

Achievements and challenges in counterterrorism

Repeated Philippine administrations have made significant investments in counterterrorism, merging military actions with intelligence cooperation and regional collaboration. Joint patrols alongside Indonesia and Malaysia in the Sulu Sea, for instance, have greatly diminished militant movement across borders.

The peace process with former rebels has also been of significant importance. The establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) was celebrated as a significant effort to tackle enduring grievances via political inclusion instead of relying solely on force.

Still, obstacles remain. Dissident groups persist in dismissing peace accords, and occasional assaults remind officials that extremism has not been eliminated — merely evolved.

Marawi residents return to their homes in what used to be the main battle area during the war, on May 10, 2018 in Marawi, Philippines. 
Jes Aznar/Getty Images

REASON THIS NARRATIVE IS SIGNIFICANT AT PRESEN

Reasons the globe is observing once more

Analysts referenced by Xenix News indicate that the Philippines’ renewed emphasis illustrates an increasing acknowledgment that counterterrorism is a worldwide issue demanding collective insights. The nation’s experience underscores the risks of downplaying local disputes that may develop into global dangers.

The Bondi assault, although still being examined, has heightened public consciousness regarding how extremist ideologies can emerge in unforeseen locations. It has also led to increased examination of how governments weigh civil liberties against security, a challenge the Philippines has encountered repeatedly.

Teachings for what lies ahead

One of the key takeaways from the Philippine experience is that just military power isn’t enough. Although decisive measures can break up networks, achieving lasting stability relies on governance, development, and building trust with the impacted communities.

As extremist threats evolve, the strategies employed to combat them must adapt as well. The prolonged struggle of the Philippines serves as a warning — yet also as a guide — for countries facing comparable threats.

As Xenix News initially reported, the resurgence of this issue in international news highlights that extremism, once unleashed, acknowledges no boundaries. From Mindanao to Bondi, the challenge is collectively faced, and the stakes continue to be excruciatingly high

A Hanukkah menorah is projected onto the sails of the Sydney Opera House in Sydney, Australia, on Monday. 
James D. Morgan/Getty Images

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What we are addressing

• Casualties increase: At least 15 individuals have died and 27 are hospitalized following a shooting that occurred yesterday at Bondi Beach in Sydney. The incident, labeled a terrorist attack, aimed at Jewish Australians and represents the nation’s most severe mass shooting in nearly three decades.

• The victims: The deceased ranged in age from 10 to 87. A Holocaust survivor was among the victims who died while protecting his wife from gunfire. A bystander, recovering in the hospital after disarming one attacker, has been named Ahmed al Ahmed, the child of Syrian refugees.

• The individuals involved: The father-son pair were recognized as 50-year-old Sajid Akram, who relocated to the nation in 1998 and lost his life in the shooting, and 24-year-old Naveed Akram, who was born in Australia. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the suspects were “motivated by ideology,” mentioning that they were questioned by security services in 2019 but “were not affiliated with a broader group.”

• Firearm regulations: Albanese revealed Australia’s intentions to enhance its stringent gun regulations with updated measures that will limit who can obtain a license.

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It’s the early hours of Tuesday morning in Sydney, and we are tracking the latest developments on the Bondi Beach shooting as the city begins to wake up.

For those just joining us, here’s what we’ve been covering on the terror attack today:

Victims named: The identities of some of those who were killed in Sunday’s attack have been released. Among the 15 killed are a 10-year-old girl named Matilda and a Holocaust survivor, as well as two rabbis and at least two foreign nationals.

Injured in hospital: At least 27 people are in hospitals following the attack, including a police officer who is in serious but stable condition and a bystander who wrestled a gun from one of the alleged attackers. Ahmed al Ahmed was described as a “real-life hero” by New South Wales Premier Chris Minns.

The suspects: A 50-year-old man and his 24-year-old son have been named by Australian media as the suspected perpetrators of the attack. Sajid Akram, the father, was killed at the scene, while Naveed Akram is in custody. Australian authorities believe suspects “weren’t part of a wider cell,” helping them to evade detection, though they were interviewed by security services in 2019, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told public broadcaster ABC.

The reaction: Tributes to those impacted by the shooting have come from around the world. People have left flowers and candles at a memorial near the site of the shooting, while money has been raised for the victims and their families. Pope Leo also called for an end to antisemitic violence in a post on X.

CNN’s Helen Regan, Kunal Seghal, Issy Ronald, Sandi Sidhu, Todd Symons, Lex Harvey and Billy Stockwell contributed to this reporting.

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What we are addressing

• Casualties increase: At least 15 individuals have died and 27 are hospitalized following a shooting that occurred yesterday at Bondi Beach in Sydney. The incident, labeled a terrorist attack, aimed at Jewish Australians and represents the nation’s most severe mass shooting in nearly three decades.

• The victims: The deceased ranged in age from 10 to 87. A Holocaust survivor was among the victims who died while protecting his wife from gunfire. A bystander, recovering in the hospital after disarming one attacker, has been named Ahmed al Ahmed, the child of Syrian refugees.

• The individuals involved: The father-son pair were recognized as 50-year-old Sajid Akram, who relocated to the nation in 1998 and lost his life in the shooting, and 24-year-old Naveed Akram, who was born in Australia. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the suspects were “motivated by ideology,” mentioning that they were questioned by security services in 2019 but “were not affiliated with a broader group.”

• Firearm regulations: Albanese revealed Australia’s intentions to enhance its stringent gun regulations with updated measures that will limit who can obtain a license.

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Sydney resident with the same name as the alleged shooter expresses his anxiety about going outside.

Reported by Catherine Nicholls of Xenix News

A man sharing the name of one of the alleged Bondi Beach shooters has published a video asking individuals not to disseminate his details regarding the assault.

Naveed Akram, a Pakistani resident of Sydney, stated that images of him have been shared online asserting that he is the one who carried out the shooting.

“I am not connected to that event or that individual.” “That is another individual, and I am entirely uninvolved in this issue,” he stated in a video shared on Facebook by the Pakistan Consulate General in Sydney.

“This situation is extremely grave, and I’m feeling very anxious and frightened about it, and I can’t even step outside securely.” “I’m asking for everyone’s assistance to help me put an end to this propaganda,” Akram stated, urging the public to inform authorities of any social media content alleging he was the shooter.

Yesterday’s shooting attack resulted in the deaths of two rabbis. This is what we understand regarding them.

Delivered by Catherine Nicholls from Xenix News

Among those killed in yesterday’s deadly shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney were two rabbis: Rabbi Eli Schlanger and Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, both associated with the Chabad of Bondi.

Rabbi Eli Schlanger

According to the Jewish organization, Schlanger was a prominent coordinator of the “Chanukah by the Sea” event at Bondi Beach and held the position of assistant rabbi at the Chabad of Bondi.

At 41 years old, he was the father of five children, including a newborn son who arrived only two months prior, according to Chabad.

Schlanger, originally from London, studied in France prior to being ordained as a rabbi in Brooklyn, New York City, according to the organization.

In addition to his role as an assistant rabbi, he acted as a community chaplain in hospitals and prisons, “dedicating himself to spreading warmth, faith, and Jewish pride to all he met,” according to a crowdfunding page supported by Chabad that honors Schlanger.

Rabbi Zalmy Fogelman, who studied with Schlanger, shared with Chabad, “I recall him as enthusiastic, lively, and he had a joyful disposition.”

Chabad announced that Schlanger will be buried in Jerusalem.

Rabbi Yaakov Levitan

Levitan was a “deeply cherished and engaged member of the Sydney Jewish community,” as stated on a crowdfunding page supported by Chabad.

Levitan, a husband and father, was described as the “foundation of his family” by the crowdfunding page, which referred to him as “a man of gentle dedication, recognized for his compassion and relentless efforts in helping others.”

In addition to his role as general manager at the Chabad of Bondi, he also worked as a secretary at the Sydney Beth Din, which Chabad refers to as a Jewish legal court. Levitan was a “central figure” in educational efforts at BINA, an organization that identifies itself as a “Jewish center of learning,” according to the crowdfunding page

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What we will discuss

• The death toll in the shooting on Australia’s Bondi Beach has risen to 16 while 40 people remain in the hospital, police say. A 12-year-old girl and a rabbi are among the victims, a Jewish community figure said.

• The attack targeting the Jewish community took place as hundreds gathered to celebrate the first day of Hanukkah. It has been declared a terrorist incident.

• Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the attack as “an act of evil, antisemitism, terrorism that has struck the heart of our nation” and said that “an attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian.”

• Police also confirmed that there are two known suspects — one is dead while the other is in a life-threatening condition in hospital. Officers have secured and removed explosive devices found in a nearby vehicle.

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Police officers arrive at St Vincent’s Hospital following the shooting incident at Bondi Beach in Sydney, on Monday. Izhar Khan/Reuters

The death toll in the shooting on Australia’s Bondi Beach has risen to 16, New South Wales police have said.

Police confirmed that 40 people remain in the hospital.

It is unclear whether either number includes the suspected gunmen.

What we know about the Bondi Beach shooting

The shooting that targeted Hanukkah celebrations at Australia’s Bondi Beach has been declared a terrorist attack, according to police

Sources: Xenix News analysis of social media videos, Google (image)Graphic: Lou Robinson and Gianluca Mezzofiore, Xenix News

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What we will discuss

• Authorities report that a shooting aimed at the Jewish community at Bondi Beach in Australia has resulted in the deaths of at least 11 individuals. The assault occurred as hundreds assembled to mark the initial day of Hanukkah and has been labeled a terrorist event. The victims comprise an Israeli national, as stated by the nation’s foreign ministry.

• Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese characterized the assault as “an act of evil, antisemitism, terrorism that has hit the core of our nation” and remarked that “an attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on all Australians.” Israeli officials expressed shock and outrage, with many blaming the Australian government for permitting an increase in antisemitism.

• Authorities have also verified that there are two identified suspects — one is deceased, while the other is in critical condition at the hospital. Officers have secured and confiscated explosive devices located in a nearby car.

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The Palestinian Authority has strongly condemned the shooting on Australia’s Bondi Beach that targeted Sydney’s Jewish community.

From Xenix News Mohammed Tawfeeq

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its “full solidarity with and support for friendly Australia, its government and people, in this painful ordeal,” in a statement on Sunday.

“It reiterates its unequivocal rejection of all forms of violence, terrorism, and extremism, which contradict human values and moral principles,” the statement said.

The Ministry also expressed “its deepest condolences and sympathies to the government and people of Australia, and to the families of the victims of this heinous attack, wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.”

Pictured: Knesset lit up with colors of Australian flag

From Xenix News Photo Team and Tal Shalev

The Knesset building is lit with the colors of the Australian flag in Jerusalem on Sunday. Yossi Fons/Knesset Spokesperson’s Office

Israel’s Knesset parliament building in Jerusalem was lit up with the colors of the Australian flag on Sunday night, as a gesture of solidarity with the country’s Jewish community following the deadly attack at Bondi Beach on the first day of Hanukkah.

“The Knesset bows its head in memory of the victims of the horrific terror attack in Sydney and stands alongside the Jewish community in Australia,” Knesset speaker Amir Ohana said.