Bethlehem Reclaims Christmas Light Amid Gaza War Shadows

The **Church of the Nativity** in Bethlehem, West Bank, is the world's oldest continuously operating church, revered as the traditional birthplace of Jesus Christ.[1][4][5] Commissioned around 326 CE by Roman Emperor Constantine I and his mother St. Helena over a sacred grotto, it was rebuilt in the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian into a five-aisled basilica with Corinthian columns, a cruciform layout, and an eastern apse.[1][2][4] Crusaders added renovations and decorations in the 12th century, while surviving mosaics depict Jesus' genealogy, angels, and church councils, blending Catholic and Orthodox artistry.[2][4] Administered under the 19th-century **Status Quo** agreement, the site is jointly custodianship by the Greek Orthodox (main basilica and Grotto of the Nativity, marked by a 14-point silver star), Roman Catholics (Grotto of the Manger and nearby St. Catherine's), and Armenian Apostolic churches, with minority rights for Coptic and Syriac Orthodox.[1][4][7] Entrants pass through the iconic low **Door of Humility**, originally Crusader-built and later modified by Ottomans to bar horsemen.[4][5][7] Designated a **UNESCO World Heritage Site** in 2012, the church has undergone meticulous restoration of its altar, frescoes, and structure, preserving traces of ancient splendor amid high convent walls.[1][6] It draws millions of pilgrims annually, especially at Christmas Eve gatherings in Manger Square, blending worship, history, and global tourism.[1][5][6] Notable features include the presbytery over the birth grotto, altars for Christ's circumcision and St. Joseph, and Crusader graffiti on columns.[1][2][4] Despite occasional inter-denominationa

The United Nations (UN) is a pivotal international organization established in 1945, following the devastation of World War II, with the primary goal of maintaining global peace and security, fostering international cooperation, and promoting social progress. The UN Charter, signed by 51 founding member states, including the United States, the United Kingdom, China, and the Soviet Union, laid the foundation for this ambitious endeavor[1][3]. ## History and Structure The UN was born out of the failures of its predecessor, the League of Nations, which failed to prevent World War II. Key planning meetings, such as the Dumbarton Oaks Conference in 1944, defined the UN's structure, which includes the General Assembly, the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council, the Trusteeship Council, the International Court of Justice, and the Secretariat[1][6]. The Security Council, with five permanent members (the United States, China, France, Russia, and the United Kingdom), holds significant influence due to its veto power[2]. ## Key Achievements Over the years, the UN has played a crucial role in conflict resolution, human rights advocacy, and sustainable development. Notable achievements include the establishment of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 and the implementation of numerous peacekeeping missions worldwide[3][4]. The UN has also been instrumental in addressing global challenges such as climate change and pandemics through its various programs and agencies. ## Current Status Today, the UN comprises 193 member states, with its most recent addition being South Sudan in 2011[5]. The organization continues to evolve, addressing emerging issues like digital governance and cybersecurity. Despite challenges, the UN remains a cornerstone of international diplomacy and cooperation. ## Notable Aspects The UN's work is not limited to politics; it also impacts business and technology through initiatives that promote sustainable development and digital inclusion. Its role in setting global standards and fostering international cooperation makes it a significant player in shaping the