May 5, 2026

World

Sure! Please provide the text you would like me to paraphrase.

Simultaneously, prominent Republican leaders in the U.S. are voicing worry that reducing American military forces in Europe might undermine NATO and empower geopolitical adversaries like Russia and China.

This discussion emphasizes an increasing split regarding the distribution of global security duties between the United States and its European partners. This article examines Germany’s stance, worries from U.S. Republicans, and the wider consequences for NATO and global stability.

Germany’s Stance: Europe Needs to Enhance Its Defense Capabilities

Germany has become more outspoken regarding the necessity for Europe to lessen its dependence on U.S. military assistance. German authorities contend that Europe, being one of the globe’s most economically influential areas, ought to assume greater responsibility for its security.

Main aspects of Germany’s position:

Europe needs to greatly boost its defense expenditures.

Nations in the European Union need to enhance their military collaboration.

Decreased reliance on U.S. military is essential for “strategic independence.”

A possible reduction of U.S. troops ought to be viewed as a chance, not a disaster.

German defense officials feel that Europe has depended excessively on American military security for a significant time. Amid changing global dangers, they contend that the continent needs to enhance its self-sufficiency regarding security and defense preparedness.

Germany’s message is unequivocal: Europe needs to get ready for a future where U.S

Context: American Armed Forces Stationed in Europe

Following World War II, the United States has sustained a notable military presence throughout Europe. This deployment has been a fundamental part of NATO’s defense strategy.

Role of American forces in Europe:

Preventing Russian hostility throughout the Cold War and onwards.

Assisting NATO partners through mutual defense pacts.

Maintaining stability in Eastern and Central Europe

Bolstering collaboration on transatlantic security

Nations like Germany, Italy, and Poland accommodate thousands of U.S. soldiers, who are essential for collaborative military drills, intelligence exchange, and quick-response missions.

This enduring presence is seen as crucial for ensuring peace and stability throughout the European continent.

Leading Republicans Caution That U.S. Troop Withdrawal Might Jeopardize NATO and Global Security Dynamics.

Russia Element: The Primary Security Threat

The continuing conflict in Ukraine has profoundly altered European security perspectives. Russia’s military activities have increased anxieties among NATO nations, particularly in Eastern Europe.

Reasons Russia is pivotal to this discussion:

Heightened military involvement near NATO frontiers

Continuing struggle in Ukraine

Cybersecurity and hybrid conflict dangers

Tactical influence on Eastern European nations

Analysts caution that if troop levels in Europe are decreased, Russia may interpret this as a decline in NATO’s defensive strength. This might likely escalate geopolitical tensions and instability in the area.

Europe’s Military Expenditures Are Rising

Due to rising security issues, numerous European nations have begun to raise their defense allocations.

Recent advancements in Europe:

Germany has initiated significant military enhancement initiatives.

Members of NATO have consented to increase defense expenditure goals.

European nations are putting resources into sophisticated weaponry systems.

Collaborative military initiatives are growing.

The Future of NATO: A Crucial Moment

NATO is presently engaged in one of the most significant strategic discussions in its recent history. The equilibrium between U.S. leadership and European accountability is being re-evaluated.

Potential upcoming situations:

Enhanced European Defense Role

Europe steadily assumes greater responsibility while retaining U.S. backing.

Diminished NATO Unity

Conflicting priorities undermine alliance cohesion.

Equitable Collaboration Framework

The defense responsibilities are more evenly distributed between the U.S. and Europe.

Experts recommend that the most stable result would involve a balanced method where both parties contribute equitably while ensuring effective coordination.

Worldwide Geopolitical Consequences

This discussion goes beyond NATO and carries broader consequences for international geopolitics.

Main international elements:

Increasing rivalry between the United States and China.

Continued disputes in the Middle East

Growing significance of cybersecurity conflict

Changing partnerships in Asia and Europe

Should NATO’s framework deteriorate, it may disrupt the global power equilibrium and provoke regional disputes or strategic rivalries among leading nations.

Final Thoughts

Germany’s push for increased European defense responsibility indicates a wider transition toward strategic independence in Europe. Simultaneously, worries expressed by U.S. Republicans underscore the dangers of hastily diminishing American military presence in Europe.

The future of NATO relies on how each side handles this transition. As Europe enhances its self-defense capacities, the United States continues to be integral in preserving global stability.

In the end, the difficulty is to discover a balanced strategy that enhances European defense while not undermining the transatlantic alliance that has bolstered global security for many years.

As conversations persist, the choices taken in the upcoming years will probably influence the future of NATO and international geopolitics for many years ahead.

Prices at the pump now the highest since 2022. Meanwhile, Iran says desalination plant on Qeshm Island out of service after airstrike.

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Here’s the latest

• Energy costs: The average US gas price has hit $4 a gallon, the highest since 2022. Average prices at the pump are now higher than at any point during President Donald Trump’s two terms. Oil prices seesawed — Brent crude rose nearly 2% to $114.9 a barrel, having inched down on the previous day.

• Latest strikes: A desalination plant on Iran’s Qeshm Island has been taken out of service in an airstrike, semi-official state media reported, as cities across Iran were hit by fresh airstrikes. Meanwhile, a Kuwaiti tanker was attacked by Iran, and cars in central Israel caught fire due to falling missile fragments.

• US troops: As speculation mounts over a possible US ground operation in Iran, the USS Tripoli, believed to be carrying Marines, is in the Indian Ocean, said US Central Command. The Pentagon is set to hold a press briefing about the war later today.AllCatch Up

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In pictures: Rescue teams in central Israel inspect damaged sites

By Xenix News Photo Desk

These are the latest images we’re seeing from central Israel.

As we reported earlier, several cars caught fire after being struck by falling missile fragments, following an airstrike from Iran.

The damage appeared to be from a cluster munition, an Israel Defense Forces spokesperson told Xenix news.

Israeli security forces and rescue teams inspect a site struck by an Iranian missile in Petah Tikva, Israel on Tuesday.
People gather outside a house damaged by an Iranian missile strike in Bnei Brak, Israel on Tuesday.

People gather outside a house damaged by an Iranian missile strike in Bnei Brak, Israel on Tuesday. Oded Balilty/AP

A boy looks at a burnt car damaged by an Iranian projectile in Petah Tikva, Israel on Tuesday.

A boy looks at a burnt car damaged by an Iranian projectile in Petah Tikva, Israel on Tuesday. Amir Levy/Getty Images

Ultra-Orthodox Jews stand inside a damaged house following an Iranian strike over Bnei Brak in central Israel on Tuesday.

Ultra-Orthodox Jews stand inside a damaged house following an Iranian strike over Bnei Brak in central Israel on Tuesday. Ilia Yefimovich/AFP/Getty Images

Ultra-Orthodox Jewish children look at the damage inside a house following an Iranian strike over Bnei Brak in central Israel on Tuesday.

Ultra-Orthodox Jewish children look at the damage inside a house following an Iranian strike over Bnei Brak in central Israel on Tuesday. Ilia Yefimovich/AFP/Getty Images

First responders assess the damage following an Iranian strike over Petah Tikva, Israel on Tuesday.

First responders assess the damage following an Iranian strike over Petah Tikva, Israel on Tuesday. Jack Guez/AFP/Getty ImagesRead more

Saudi Arabia and UAE intercept attacks as fire breaks out on Kuwaiti oil tanker

By Xenix news

Kuwaiti tanker struck off Dubai

Countries in the Persian Gulf, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have reported the interception of several missiles and drones today.

Take a look at what we know has happened in the region so far:

  • A fire broke out on a Kuwaiti oil tanker off the coast of Dubai after it was hit by a “direct Iranian attack,” according to state-run Kuwait News Agency (KUNA). The fire was brought under control around 4:30 a.m. local time, the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation said, adding that no oil leakage or injuries were reported following the strike.
  • Saudi Arabia’s state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported in the early hours of this morning that four ballistic missiles launched toward the Riyadh region were intercepted and destroyed. Some hours later, debris from an intercepted drone fell on six houses in a neighborhood in the Al-Kharj Governorate, SPA reported, citing the country’s Civil Defense. The country has also shot down drones and missiles throughout the day, its defense ministry has said in updates posted to X
  • In an update this morning, the United Arab Emirates’ defense ministry said it was “actively engaging” missile and drone threats. Debris from one interception landed on residential houses in Dubai, state-run Emirates News Agency reported, causing minor injuries to four people.

Xenix news Stephanie Halasz contributed to this reporting.Read more

Gas prices could top $5 if the war continues, analyst warns

By Matt

Pain at the pump could get worse before it gets better.

Gas prices have already topped $4 a gallon — for the first time since August 2022 — and some analysts warn record-high prices could be on the horizon.

“I think it’s going to go much higher,” Bob McNally, president of Rapidan Energy Group, told CNN in a phone interview.

McNally, a former energy adviser to President George W. Bush, said oil prices will likely keep rising if the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively shut by Iran.

“I wouldn’t bet my life on it, but there are good chances” gas prices take out the 2022 record high of $5.02 per gallon, McNally said.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 sent gas prices above $5 a gallon, contributing to the worst inflation in four decades.

Andy Lipow, president of Lipow Oil Associates, told Xenix news gas prices are not done rising and he expects at least another 10-cent jump in the coming days.

“What’s really scary is not what’s happening here in the US but that we’re already seeing rationing happening in less developed countries,” Lipow said.

Of course, oil and gasoline prices could crash back to earth if a settlement is reached to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and ease security fears in the region.

War escalates on multiple fronts and oil prices rise, as Iran contradicts Trump’s claims.

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Here’s the latest

• Trump’s threat: President Donald Trump said the US may blow up and completely obliterate Iran’s electric plants and oil wells if a deal to end the war is not reached and the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened.

• Peace talks: Iran contradicted Trump’s claims that it had agreed to “most of” the US’ 15-point list of demands to end the war, describing the proposal as “unrealistic.”

• Energy costs: Meanwhile, oil prices rose today after Trump said he wanted to “take the oil in Iran,” with Brent crude crossing $116 a barrel. The average US gas price is now $3.99 according to AAA, the highest since 2022.

• Latest strikes: At least two people were killed in a US-Israeli strike on an orphanage in Iran, state media reported. A UN peacekeeper was killed in Lebanon as Israeli forces struck parts of the country overnight, Indonesian and human rights officials said, and an oil refinery complex in Israel was hit by debris from an intercepted attack.AllCatch up

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Lebanese soldier killed in southern Lebanon, as Israeli military escalates offensive

By oliva

“This attack comes in the context of Israel’s ongoing assault on Lebanon, which has resulted in martyrdom and injuries among both military personnel and civilians,” the statement added.

It also follows the killing of an Indonesian UN peacekeeper in southern Lebanon on Sunday, according to Indonesian and human rights officials, as Israeli forces hammered parts of the country overnight.

Xenix News has asked the Israeli military for comment.

Rising death toll in Lebanon: At least 1,247 people have been killed in Israeli strikes in Lebanon since March 2, the country’s Health Ministry said in an update today. At least 124 children are among those killed, the ministry said yesterday.

Xenix News Dana Karni, Charbel Mallo and Catherine Nicholls contributed tot his report.

New strikes, peace talks and rising energy costs: The latest on the Middle East conflict

By Maureen

Sec. of State Marco Rubio looks on as he speaks to the press before his departure from Le Bourget, France, on Friday.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio declined to say this morning who the US is negotiating with in Iran but said “fractures” have emerged within Tehran’s leadership.

This comes after Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, said the US’s proposal for ending the conflict contains “unrealistic” demands.

Meanwhile, strikes across the region continued today, with a US-Israeli strike on an orphanage west of Tehran killing at least two people, according to Iran’s semi-official Fars News Agency.

If you’re just joining us, here’s a brief overview of the latest headlines:

  • A missile said to be launched from Iran was “neutralized” by NATO assets in the Mediterranean after it entered Turkish airspace, according to Turkey’s defense ministry.
  • An Indonesian UN peacekeeper was killed in southern Lebanon Sunday, according to Indonesian and human rights officials, as Israeli forces pummeled parts of the country overnight.
  • More ships are passing through the Strait of Hormuz, according to shipping data — but still far fewer than before the Middle East conflict erupted. Pakistan announced last weekend Iran would allow 20 of its flagged ships to pass through.
  • Following a wave of attacks directed at Israel on Saturday, Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen could target a key global trade artery, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, inflicting more economic pain in the Gulf, a Middle East expert warned.
  • Several countries are implementing drastic measures to counter the deepening energy crisis unleashed by the war in Iran. Asia is feeling the impact first and the shock will move westward, JPMorgan warned in a report.
  • The average US gas price edged up by 1 cent to $3.99 according to AAA, the highest since 2022, but still just short of the $4 benchmark.

Xenix news Chris Isidore, Michael Williams, Mustafa Qadri, Tim Lister, Masrur Jamaluddin, Charbel Mallo, Sana Noor Haq, Billy Stockwell and Catherine Nicholls contributed to this report.

Thousands of people have reportedly been killed in the Middle East in the past 31 days

Mourners attend a funeral on March 9 at Behesht-e Zahra cemetery on the outskirts of Tehran for a person killed in recent airstrikes.

Thousands of people have been killed during the conflict in the Middle East since it began on February 28, according to a Xenix news tally of death tolls released by regional authorities.

Here’s what those authorities have said about the number of people reportedly killed in the region since the war began. Xenix news is not able to independently verify these numbers.

  • Iran: At least 1,900 people have been killed in attacks on Iran since February 28, the Iranian Red Crescent reported on Friday. On March 16, Iran’s foreign minister said “hundreds of Iranian civilians,” including more than 200 children, had been killed since the conflict began.
  • Lebanon: At least 1,247 people have been killed in Israeli strikes in Lebanon since March 2, the country’s Health Ministry said in an update today. At least 124 children are among those killed, the ministry said yesterday.
  • Iraq: At least 101 people have been killed across Iraq since the war began, authorities have said. In the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region, at least 13 people have been killed, according to the regional government.
  • Israel: Some 19 civilians have been killed inside Israel since the conflict began, not including those who died indirectly because of strikes. Six Israeli soldiers have also been killed in southern Lebanon, according to the Israeli military.
  • USA: Thirteen US service members have been killed since the US war with Iran began a month ago, according to the US Central Command.

Dozens of people have also been killed in other countries in the region since the conflict began. Deaths due to the conflict have been reported in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, the occupied West Bank, Oman, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia since February 28, according to local authorities.

Xenix News Charbel Mallo, Eyad Kourdi, Dana Karni, Aqeel Najim, Nechirvan Mando, Mohammed Tawfeeq, Eugenia Yosef, Oren Liebermann, Tal Shalev, Tamar Michaelis, and Zachary Cohen contributed to this report.Read more

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5 min read

Hazel oliva

Christian worshippers mark Palm Sunday, following the cancellation of the traditional Palm Sunday procession at the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem in Jerusalem's Old City.

Following a widespread backlash, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had asked “relevant authorities” to allow Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch, to hold services at Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre “as he wishes.”

On Sunday, the Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem said Israeli police prevented the church’s senior leaders from entering to celebrate Mass, citing security concerns.

“For the first time in centuries, the Heads of the Church were prevented from celebrating the Palm Sunday Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre,” the Patriarchate said in a statement. “This incident is a grave precedent and disregards the sensibilities of billions of people around the world who, during this week, look to Jerusalem.”

Palm Sunday marks the start of Holy Week, the most sacred period in the Christian calendar, with Sunday’s liturgy commemorating Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. The church is believed to be the site of Jesus’ burial and resurrection.

The move comes as Israeli authorities restrict access to religious sites in East Jerusalem amid the war with Iran, including Al Aqsa Mosque and the Western Wall. Israel captured East Jerusalem from Jordan in the 1967 war, and has fought multiple wars since, but sweeping restrictions on access to holy sites – particularly during major religious periods – have been rare.

In his statement on X, Netanyahu said that “Iran has repeatedly targeted the holy sites of all three monotheistic religions in Jerusalem with ballistic missiles” over the past days. He added that one strike crashed just “meters from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.”

Israeli police issued a statement confirming they have approved a limited prayer arrangement at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in coordination with a representative of the Latin Patriarch, following a situational assessment led by Jerusalem District Commander Deputy Commissioner Avshalom Peled and other senior officers. Authorities added that other major religious sites, including the Western Wall Plaza and the Temple Mount compound, remain closed to worshippers over public safety concerns.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog welcomed the discussions between church leaders and local authorities to settle arrangement for Easter prayers this week. “I reiterate the unwavering commitment of the State of Israel to the freedom of worship for people of all faiths and the importance of upholding the status quo at the holy sites in Jerusalem,” he said on social media.

The Italian government had criticized the police decision to bar access to the church and planned to summon the Israeli ambassador in Rome on Monday. The Patriarchate had already canceled the traditional Palm Sunday procession in Jerusalem due to the conflict, which has seen Iran fire thousands of projectiles toward Israel.

The two senior Church officials, including Cardinal Pizzaballa, “were stopped en route, while proceeding privately and without any characteristics of a procession or ceremonial act, and were compelled to turn back,” the Patriarchate said.

Altar servers start the Palm Sunday Mass Procession, commemorating Jesus Christ's entry into Jerusalem, at the Catholic Franciscan Monastery of Saint Saviour in the old city of Jerusalem on March 29.

Preventing their entry “constitutes a manifestly unreasonable and grossly disproportionate measure,” it added.

The Patriarchate also accused the Israeli authorities of a “hasty and fundamentally flawed decision, tainted by improper considerations.”

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there was “no malicious intent whatsoever” in the ban, only concern for the safety of the celebrants.

“However, given the holiness of the week leading up to Easter for the world’s Christians, Israel’s security arms are putting together a plan to enable church leaders to worship at the holy site in the coming days,” Netanyahu’s office added.

Israeli Police said that all holy sites in the Old City of Jerusalem had been “closed to worshippers, particularly locations that do not have standard protected spaces, in order to safeguard public safety and security.”

“The Old City and the holy sites constitute a complex area that does not allow access for large emergency and rescue vehicles,” the police said in a statement.

The number of Jews allowed to pray at the Western Wall in Jerusalem has been limited to 50 a day, while Muslims have been completely barred from accessing Al Aqsa Mosque since the war started in late February, including the entire holy month of Ramadan.

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, a known Israel supporter, released a statement on X criticizing the Israeli decision, calling it “an unfortunate overreach already having major repercussions around the world.” He noted that churches, synagogues, and mosques throughout Jerusalem “have met with the restrictions of 50 or less” for safety reasons. “For the Patriarch to be barred from entry to the Church on Palm Sunday for a private ceremony is difficult to understand or justify,” he said.

Italy decries ‘insult’ to religious freedom

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said her government stood with Cardinal Pizzaballa and other religious leaders.

“The Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem is a sacred place of Christianity, and as such must be preserved and protected,” Meloni added. Preventing church leaders from entering the church “constitutes an insult not only to believers, but to every community that recognizes religious freedom,” Meloni said.

Cardinal Pizzaballa leads a prayer service to mark Palm Sunday in Jerusalem, following the cancellation of the traditional Palm Sunday procession from the Mount of Olives amid restrictions on gathering in large groups and the US-Israeli war on Iran.

During Mass at the Vatican Sunday, Pope Leo said that God rejects the prayers of leaders who start wars and have “hands full of blood.” He also said that his prayers are “more than ever with the Christians of the Middle East, who are suffering the consequences of a brutal conflict and, in many cases, are unable to observe fully the liturgies of these holy days.”

Addressing tens of thousands in St. Peter’s Square on Palm Sunday, ​the celebration that opens the holy week leading up to Easter for the world’s ​1.4 billion Catholics, the pontiff called the conflict “atrocious” and said Jesus cannot be ⁠used to justify any wars.

Pope Leo condemns ‘those who wage war’

Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Indonesia, Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey condemned Israel’s continued closure of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem to Muslim worshippers.

The eight Muslim states said that discriminatory and arbitrary limits on access to places of worship amounted to a “flagrant violation” of international law.

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6 min read

By Hazel Oliva

“Conclave” the movie provides a gripping, if fictional, behind-the-scenes look inside the secretive election of a new pope. But last year’s real-life conclave was just as dramatic, with plenty of plot twists, political battles among cardinals and a surprise outcome.

A new book lifts a lid on how, in May 2025, Pope Leo XIV was elected as the first US-born pope in the Catholic Church’s 2,000-year history. Its authors tell in previously unheard detail how Cardinal Robert Prevost, a low-key Augustinian friar from Chicago, had quietly garnered support from fellow cardinals as the conclave got underway but remained under the radar of wider attention as a serious candidate.

Gerard O’Connell, the Vatican correspondent for “America,” a Catholic magazine based in New York, and Elisabetta Piqué, a correspondent for Argentina’s “La Nacion” newspaper and a CNN contributor at the 2025 conclave, describe how an Italian frontrunner faded from contention while providing a breakdown of the voting inside the Sistine Chapel. They also report how the election of Prevost caught many by surprise, including senior figures in the Vatican. For years, the prospect of an American pope had seemed impossible because of the “military, economic and cultural power” of the US, one cardinal told them.

Pope Leo XIV arrives in the Popemobile ahead of his inauguration Mass in St. Peter's Square on May 18.

O’Connell and Piqué, a husband-and-wife reporting team, were longtime friends of Pope Francis, who had baptized their two children in Argentina while still a cardinal there and later also married the couple.

The book, “The Election of Pope Leo XIV: The Last Surprise of Pope Francis,” draws on interviews with numerous cardinals.

Using those sources, the authors describe how in the tense days leading up to the conclave,  inside the College of Cardinals: Should they vote for a pope to continue the legacy and reforms of Francis, or make a course correction? As O’Connell and Piqué set out, with each contributing their own diary-style entries to the book, efforts to elect a pope who would go in a different direction to Francis were thwarted. Leo, while distinct in style from his predecessor and still somewhat inscrutable, could broadly be described as Francis’ choice.

Here are some of the takeaways from the new book.

A conservative won round one but then Leo emerged

The first ballot, O’Connell reports, saw Cardinal Péter Erdö, a Hungarian, gain the greatest number of votes. Erdö is a distinguished church lawyer and was the conservatives’ choice. While support for him was well-organized, it wasn’t necessarily widespread, O’Connell says. In that opening round, “more than 30 candidates got votes but only three received between 20 and 30,” he writes, with the other two contenders being Cardinals Robert Prevost and Pietro Parolin, the Holy See Secretary of State and leading Italian candidate. The next two ballots, however, saw support move swiftly to Prevost while Erdö’s dropped away. The first American pope was elected on the fourth ballot with 108 votes, with Parolin as runner-up, O’Connell says. The book also reveals the fourth ballot had to be repeated as one cardinal accidentally stuck two ballot papers together. (The same thing happened in the 2013 conclave).

Solemn, secret… but also human

The conclave is a serious, spiritual process in which the cardinals are cut off from the world – surrendering all electronic devices – before they cast their vote in front of the awesome fresco of Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgment.” But the book suggests not everything always went to plan. Voting on the first day was delayed when security officials picked up a cell phone signal inside the Sistine Chapel, O’Connell writes. One of the “older cardinals” realized he had a cell phone in his pocket which he then handed over, a reported scene O’Connell describes as “unimaginable, even for a film.” Then another problem emerged, the book says. With no phones to use as alarms, some cardinals almost overslept in their rooms in the Casa Santa Marta, the guesthouse where they stay for the duration of conclave. The Vatican handed complimentary alarm clocks to each one to make sure they would wake up and get to the Sistine Chapel on time. Some cardinals also complained about the lack of bathroom in the chapel which meant they had to be escorted to an external restroom by a junior cardinal deacon. “It’s like going back to kindergarten,” one told the authors.

An image of the late Pope Francis and Pope Leo XIV at the bishop's palace in Chiclayo, northern Peru.

As the election drew closer, the frontrunners fell away

In the run-up to the conclave, following Francis’ death, two cardinals were talked of as frontrunners: Parolin, the Vatican’s chief diplomat, and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, leader of the Vatican’s evangelization office. Parolin was being pushed as a moderate, diplomatic figure who would restore “order” after the turbulent years of Francis, Piqué and O’Connell report. But he lacked grassroots experience in Catholic communities. While Parolin worked closely with Francis, one of his supporters, Cardinal Beniamino Stella, stunned fellow cardinals with a speech at a meeting where he attacked a major Francis reform. The authors reported on the speech in the run-up to the conclave and this, they say, had a negative effect on Parolin’s candidacy. This was compounded by a poor performance at a Mass with large numbers of young people, where Parolin was described as lacking “charisma” and as having “no connection” with the youthful congregation. Tagle, while charismatic and from the Philippines, with one of the largest Catholic populations in the world, was considered not to be a strong enough administrator, the book says. He also suffered harsh social media attacks which damaged his candidacy.

Leo, the dark horse who defied the assumption “no American pope”

The authors claim that “more than twenty” cardinals had quietly identified Cardinal Prevost as the most qualified candidate to be pope. They were impressed by his humble, low-profile style and felt he would be the one best placed to continue Francis’ legacy, they write. His missionary experience in Peru, and international experience more broadly, was crucial.

A Polish woman, center, who lives in the United States celebrates with her friends after the newly elected Pope Leo XIV spoke for the first time from the Vatican balcony on May 8, 2025.

Previously, because of the US’ global political and economic power, it was widely accepted the cardinals would not choose an American pope. But Prevost was seen as “the least American of the Americans” and the cardinals from Latin America, Piqué reports, felt that “although a ‘gringo,’ (he) is one of us.”

Pope Francis ensured Leo was a candidate

Francis quietly promoted the man who would become his successor and ensured he was a contender. “Clearly Pope Francis had his sights set on him,” Piqué writes. It was the late pope – the first from Latin America – who laid the ground for Prevost to become a candidate by first appointing him a bishop in Chiclayo, Peru, and then bringing him to Rome to run one of the most important Vatican departments, responsible for appointing bishops. In this high-ranking role, Leo worked closely with cardinals from across the world and it was a sign of the trust Francis had placed in him. The pair had regular one-to-one meetings during which, Piqué says, “surely the two men discussed Church leadership issues beyond the immediate topic at hand (upcoming bishop appointments),” while keen-eyed observers noted that Prevost accompanied Francis on his last two trips abroad.

Pope Leo XIV stands in the Sistine Chapel among cardinals after being elected.

Despite being an ancient election process steeped in ritual and tradition, and still communicating its results through smoke signals, the conclave was able decisively and swiftly to produce a result. As O’Connell and Piqué show, it also retains the ability to surprise.

“The Election of Pope Leo XIV: The Last Surprise of Pope Francis,” will be published in English by Orbis Books on March 25, 2026.

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4 min read

Thousands Demonstrate Against Greenland Risk as Trump Reveals New Tariffs on Denmark and European Partners.

Thousands of protesters gathered in public squares throughout Denmark and other European capitals on Saturday after former U.S. President Donald Trump revived contentious statements about Greenland and unveiled significant new tariffs on Denmark and various European partners. The statements made during a campaign-themed event heightened diplomatic strains and provoked strong responses from European officials, economists, and security experts.

Demonstrators in Copenhagen brandished Danish and Greenlandic flags as they shouted slogans denouncing what they called “economic coercion” and “neo-imperial threats.” Comparable protests occurred in Berlin, Paris, and Brussels, where participants voiced worries that Trump’s remarks might jeopardize transatlantic relations amid a period of increased global uncertainty.

Trump informed his supporters that Europe had “treated the United States unfairly” for many years and blamed Denmark for “stopping strategic collaboration” in the Arctic. He revealed intentions to implement new tariffs on Danish exports, along with wider duties aimed at what he referred to as “uncooperative European allies.”

“Trump stated that these nations rely on the U.S. market.” “They must be fair if they seek our protection and partnership.”

A Recognizable Flashpoint Resurfaces

Trump’s revived attention on Greenland mirrors his previous fascination with the Arctic island during his presidency, when he suggested the idea of the United States purchasing the area. Greenland, an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, possesses considerable strategic importance because of its location, rare earth materials, and closeness to Arctic shipping lanes.

Danish authorities quickly dismissed Trump’s recent remarks. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that Denmark “will not yield to threats or tariffs,” underlining that the future of Greenland is decided solely by its inhabitants.

Greenland’s administration also released a statement emphasizing its independence. “We are not available for purchase, nor are we a pawn in international conflicts,” the statement said.

Tariffs Disrupt European Markets

The tariff declaration reverberated across European financial markets, especially in industries reliant on U.S. exports, such as pharmaceuticals, machinery, and renewable energy technology. Experts cautioned that the suggested actions might provoke counter tariffs from the European Union, leading to a wider trade conflict.

Economists observed that Denmark might be particularly impacted because of its economy, which is focused on exports. Trump indicated that the tariffs might extend beyond Denmark to other European countries that, as he stated, “take advantage of American security without contributing their fair share.”

Officials from the European Commission stated they were assessing the announcement and developing possible counteractions. A senior diplomat from the EU labeled the action as “profoundly destabilizing” and cautioned that it might weaken NATO cohesion.

European Leaders Caution Against Lasting Harm to Transatlantic Relationships

As demonstrations persisted through the night, European leaders voiced increasing concern regarding what they characterized as a diminishing trust between the United States and its longstanding allies.

French President Emmanuel Macron referred to the tariff threat as “an economic weaponization of diplomacy” and encouraged Washington to engage in dialogue instead of confrontation. German authorities expressed comparable worries, cautioning that trade conflicts might undermine Western unity as global security issues increase.

NATO representatives secretly voiced concerns regarding the impact on alliance unity, especially considering Greenland’s critical role in Arctic military strategies. Analysts warned that Trump’s remarks could obscure the distinction between economic policy and security obligations.

“This goes beyond mere tariffs,” stated a European security specialist. “It concerns the extent to which allies can depend on one another when strategic interests are involved.”

Demonstrations Reveal Underlying Anxieties

In Copenhagen, protesters speaking to local media expressed that their frustration extended beyond just tariffs. Numerous individuals voiced concerns that Greenland might turn into a pawn in great-power rivalry, especially as climate change unveils new Arctic pathways and heightens interest in the area’s natural resources.

“Concerns about sovereignty, democracy, and respect are prominent,” stated a protester. “Allies shouldn’t communicate with each other like this.”

In Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, smaller yet emotionally intense meetings occurred, where locals expressed worry that global power conflicts might overshadow local concerns, such as climate resilience and economic growth.

Trump’s Communication to Electorate

Trump’s remarks seemed designed for a local audience, emphasizing his enduring message that allies exploit the United States. His campaign has progressively focused on economic nationalism, promising to leverage tariffs in foreign policy conflicts.

Crowd members at the rally cheered the announcement, seeing it as a show of power. “He’s advocating for America,” remarked one participant. “Other nations have been taking advantage of us.”

Critics, nonetheless, contend that these policies might increase consumer prices in the U.S. and trigger retaliatory actions that negatively impact American exporters.

What Follows Next

European officials indicated that official replies would probably be synchronized at the EU level in the next few days. Trade specialists expect discussions, but caution that language from both sides might strengthen their stances.

Currently, the protests act as a clear indication of how swiftly diplomatic conflicts can escalate into public disorder. As chants resonated through European streets, one message was evident: Trump’s comments have rekindled past grievances and introduced new doubt into the transatlantic alliance.

Regardless of whether the tariff threat is enacted as policy or stays a campaign strategy, experts indicate that this situation highlights the precariousness of alliances during a time of increasing geopolitical rivalry — as well as the enduring consequences of statements made on the world stage

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Here’s the latest

• US President Donald Trump has canceled meetings with Iranian officials and encouraged protesters to keep demonstrating, saying “help is on its way” amid a brutal crackdown by Tehran’s regime. At least 1,850 protesters have now been killed in more than two weeks of demonstrations, according to a US-based rights group.

• Some landline and mobile phone users in Iran have been able to call abroad for the first time more than four days after the government shut down communications. But internet access remains cut off for a fifth day.

 German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he believes the Iranian regime could be facing its “last days and weeks.” A number of European countries have summoned Iranian ambassadors as they condemn Tehran’s actions.

 Trump did not attend a meeting of his national security officials on Iran today, the White House said. It follows the administration’s announcement yesterday of a 25% tariff on countries that do business with Iran.Allcatch up

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After Trump cancels meetings, Iran’s national security chief calls him a “killer”

From Xenix News Max Saltman and Mostafa Salem

Iranian national security chief Ali Larijani called US President Donald Trump one of the “main killers of the people of Iran” in a post on X after Trump said that he had canceled any meetings with Iranian officials due to protester deaths.

Larijani also named Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the second “killer” on his list.

The Israeli military has said that it is “prepared defensively and is continuously improving its capabilities and operational readiness,” though it considers the protests an “internal Iranian matter.”

Iranian officials have blamed the unrest on foreign-linked “terrorists.”

White House says Trump did not attend Iran meeting with national security officials

From Xenix News Kit Maher

President Trump did not attend a Tuesday morning meeting of national security principals regarding Iran, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Air Force One on the way to Michigan.

Trump is giving remarks on the economy in Detroit, where Leavitt said Trump is likely to mention Iran.

Xenix News previously reported Trump was expected to convene senior national security officials to discuss how to proceed in Iran, but Leavitt said Tuesday he hadn’t been scheduled to attend this morning’s meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, among others.

Earlier Tuesday, Trump said on Truth Social that he’s canceled all meetings with Iranian officials until “the senseless killing of protestors STOP.”

Trump had said on Sunday that Iran called to negotiate, adding that a meeting was being set up.

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Iran’s death toll could be higher than reports say, but an internet blackout obscures it

From Xenix News Zahid Mahmood

Fears are growing that the number of people killed in Iran’s protest is much higher than what has been publicly reported, but with the country largely cut off from the internet, only a portion of the deaths can be confirmed.

In an update today, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) said at least 1,850 protesters have been killed and at least 16,784 have been arrested since the unrest began in December.

HRANA has told CNN that its figures are based only on cases it has been able to identify and verify. But with Iran largely offline, the actual toll could be much higher.

Internet monitoring group NetBlocks says the country has been without internet access for five days, since authorities imposed a nationwide shutdown last week — severely limiting the flow of images, videos and witness accounts.

Despite the blackout, CNN has been able to reach some people on the ground when brief landline and mobile calls become available. Multiple eyewitnesses have described violent crackdowns on protesters and “chaotic” conditions inside hospitals.

Rare video that surfaced over the weekend from inside Kahrizak Forensic Medical Center appears to show people crowded around a monitor, looking to identify their loved ones.

For context: Internet shutdowns are a core tactic of the regime’s playbook during periods of unrest. In 2019, Iran went almost entirely offline after nationwide protests gripped the country. And in the wake of 22-year-old’s Mahsa Amini’s death in 2022, the regime shut down the internet, making it harder to document what was happening on the ground.

Xenix News Billy Stockwell, Catherine Nicholls, Helen Regan and Hira Humayun contributed to this report

Iran’s internet blackout hits 5-day mark

From Xenix News Soph Warnes

Iran has been under a near-total internet blackout for five days, according to cybersecurity watchdog NetBlocks, as authorities crack down on anti-government protesters.

Earlier today, telephone communications appeared to have been partially restored, with some landline and mobile phone users able to call abroad for the first time since the blackout began last week.

Alp Toker, director of NetBlocks, told CNN earlier in the week: “National blackouts tend to be the regime’s go-to strategy when deadly force is about to get used against protesters, with the goal being to prevent the spread of news of what’s happening on ground, and also to limit international scrutiny.”

At least 1,850 protesters have been killed, according to estimates from the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).

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Where things stand

• Eyewitnesses have reported violence on the streets of Iran as the country enters its third week of anti-government protests which have spread across all of its 31 provinces. Details are emerging about some of the Iranians killed in a brutal crackdown by security services against the demonstrators.

• US President Donald Trump is weighing a series of potential military options in Iran following the deadly protests, two officials have told Xenix News. In a warning to the US, Iran’s parliamentary speaker said American military and commercial bases will be treated as targets for retaliation if Washington does intervene militarily.

• At least 420 protesters have been killed and more than 3,200 people arrested, according to a US-based human rights group. Iran has now been offline for more than 72 hours after the authorities shut down internet access and telephone lines amid the turmoil.AllCatch Up

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Iran enters fourth day of internet blackout

From Xenix New’s Jomana Karadsheh and Hira Humayun

Iran’s internet blackout has entered its fourth day, according to cybersecurity watchdog NetBlocks.

Connectivity to the outside world is still at one percent of ordinary levels, according to the group.

More than 10,000 people arrested during Iran protests, US-based rights group says

From Xenix New’s Jomana Karadsheh and Billy Stockwell

Demonstrators gather while blocking a street during a protest in Tehran, Iran on Friday.

More than 10,000 people have been arrested over the past 15 days during anti-regime demonstrations in Iran, a US-based rights group said Sunday.

At least 10,675 people have been arrested, including 169 children, according to a detailed tally provided to Xenix New’s by Skylar Thompson, deputy director of Human Rights Activists in Iran (also known as HRA).

HRA’s news arm is called Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).

At least 490 protesters have been killed over the same period, according to the group’s latest tally, updated Sunday. Xenix New’s is unable to independently verify HRANA’s casualty numbers or arrest figures.

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Demonstrators rally in European capitals in solidarity with Iranian protesters

From Xenix New’s Catherine Nicholls and Evan John

Demonstrators at a rally in Central London in solidarity with the protesters in Iran. Some hold images of Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s ousted shah.

Demonstrators have taken to the streets in a number of European capital cities this weekend in solidarity with the protesters in Iran.

In London, protesters gathered near Downing Street, the official residence of Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Some were waving pre-revolution Iranian flags, while others were waving flags bearing the logo of the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran, an Albania-based Iranian dissident group that was removed from the US foreign terrorist organization list in 2012.

Many people were holding signs reading “No to shahs (kings), no to mullahs (clerics).” Others held up placards with photographs of Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last shah.

“Iranian people have not stopped their protest. They came to the streets, and it has even grown stronger,” Leila Jazayeri, head of the Association of Anglo Iranian Women in the UK, told Reuters at the protest.

Another protester, who gave the name of Azadeh, told Reuters that she believes “democratic change needs to come from within inside Iran.”

“The Iranian people have risen up once again. The Western governments need to voice their support for the Iranian people and for the protests that they are conducting across the country. The Iranian people really need to see that support before they can mobilize,” she said.

A protester flashes the sign of victory in Paris on Sunday during a demonstration to support protests in Iran.
A protester displays a placard during a rally in Berlin in support of the Iran protests.

In Paris, people marched down a street chanting, playing music and waving Iran’s pre-revolution flag, which features a lion symbol. Some were also waving Israeli flags.

People also took to the streets in Berlin in solidarity with those protesting in Iran. One person was seen holding a placard reading “Women Life Freedom,” a reference to the 2022 protest movement, whilst another held a banner that said “stop execution.”

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3 min read

From Xenix News | Initial Report

Ukrainian officials reported that Russia executed a massive overnight assault on the Kyiv area, resulting in at least two fatalities and multiple injuries, mere days before expected peace talks with former US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Air raid sirens reverberated throughout central Ukraine as barrages of missiles and drones struck residential neighborhoods, energy installations, and infrastructure close to the capital. Ukrainian air defenses shot down numerous incoming threats, yet falling debris and direct strikes led to damage to residences and essential services.

Xenix News is one of the initial sources to highlight that the timing of the attack has heightened worries in Kyiv and Western capitals, as it aligns with fresh diplomatic efforts focused on seeking potential avenues for de-escalation.

Local officials verified that two civilians died in areas near Kyiv, as emergency teams labored overnight to save residents trapped beneath debris. Numerous districts faced power outages, increasing the pressure on communities already used to the unpredictability of war.

“A high-ranking Ukrainian official informed Xenix News, ‘This was not a random attack.’” “It was intended to convey a message.”

A strategic increase prior to negotiations.

“A regional security expert noted that Russia has frequently ramped up military activity just ahead of negotiations.” “It generates tension, influences narratives, and alerts Ukraine and its allies to the expenses of extending the conflict.”

Residents recounted a night filled with fear and fatigue. Windows shook from explosions, and dense smoke billowed up from various impact locations. Affected areas saw the closure of schools and public buildings while damage assessments were ongoing.

The scope and organization of the strike highlight Russia’s ongoing ability to carry out intricate operations well into Ukraine, even amid losses on other fronts. Ukrainian authorities reported that the assault included a combination of drones and missiles fired from various angles.

Though Kyiv was not directly impacted, the neighboring areas suffered the most from the attack. Experts indicate that this approach enables Russia to interfere with everyday life and infrastructure without eliciting the same intensity of international response as a direct attack on the heart of the capital.

Concurrently, the attack threatens to solidify Ukrainian public sentiment as political leaders face pressure from certain international players to consider compromise.

Interrogatives and Responses: What We Have Learned Until Now

Who was accountable for the assault?

Ukrainian officials have linked the attack to Russian troops, referencing radar information and wreckage that matches Russian-manufactured armaments.

Why at this time, before peace negotiations?

Analysts suggest that the timing is deliberate, intended to impact negotiations and show military strength.

Did they strike military targets?

Ukraine reports that the majority of effects were felt in civilian zones and infrastructure, while Russia frequently asserts it aims at military-related locations.

What has been Ukraine’s reaction?

President Zelensky denounced the assault, emphasizing the need for enhanced air defenses and ongoing global assistance.

Diplomatic interests increase as negotiations near.

The resurgence of violence hampers already delicate diplomatic endeavors. Trump has indicated that his participation might speed up discussions, while Zelensky has carefully received international involvement that honors Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty.

Ukrainian officials emphasize that incidents like this render trust almost unattainable.

“How can we discuss peace when missiles are striking our citizens?” a Ukrainian lawmaker inquired.

Western diplomats reiterated those worries, cautioning that ongoing attacks erode trust in Russia’s readiness to negotiate sincerely

Despite the devastation, Ukrainian emergency teams reinstated electricity to multiple impacted regions within hours, showcasing the nation’s increasing resilience after almost three years of conflict.

For numerous inhabitants close to Kyiv, the assault served as yet another reminder that despite ongoing diplomatic talks, the situation on the ground continues to be harsh and uncertain.

As Xenix News tracks the latest updates, focus shifts to whether the forthcoming Trump–Zelensky talks will take place as scheduled — and whether Russia’s actions will bring discussions nearer to or farther from a potential ceasefire.

Currently, the signal from the skies above Kyiv is clear: the war’s result is still being influenced not just at negotiation tables, but also through military might

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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