SIEGE OF THE NATIVITY CHURCH IN BETHLEHEM

At a critical time in the operation "RAMPARTS" (april 2002) conducted in all Palestinian territories by Isreali forces in response to the terrorist acts; the main Palestinian cities are occupied. More than 300 check-points keep the self-territories under tight control.The holy city of Bethlehem and her pupolation, mainly Christians are completely disconnected from the rest of the world.

In the begenning of May, the zeppelin of Tsahal (Israeli army), cover the city. Palestinians actively chased by Israël take refuge within the church premises. The smallest movement is observed at every moment.

To go down to the square of "la Mangeoire", one has to walk through tight alleys. Posters of martyrs, the only notable presence of the ennemy have been torn down. The strategic points around the city are occupied by Israeli snipers. Sporadic shootings burst forth from one side to the other. In spite of the situation, it is out of the question for Tsahal to attack the church. After several days under siege and negociations, the first civilian palestinians, come out of the Nativity, exhausted.