Mysterious street artist Banksy has created a “modified Nativity” scene at a hotel in Bethlehem.
The work, titled the “Scar of Bethlehem”, depicts Jesus’s manger in front of the separation barrier in Israel. Following what seems to be an an attempt to destroy it, the damage has caused a dent in the shape of a star, which looks over the scene.
While the International Court of Justice has said the barrier is illegal, Israel has maintained ever since construction was approved in 2000 that it’s required to prevent terror attacks.
Palestinians, though, believe it’s an attempt to claim land. The barrier crosses the West Bank village of Bir Nabala, situated between Jerusalem and Ramallah.
Banksy collaborated with the owners of Bethlehem’s Walled Off hotel to create the work, which depicts life for Palestinians in the West Bank.
“It is a great way to bring up the story of Bethlehem, the Christmas story, in a different way – to make people think more,” hotel manager Wissam Salsaa said.
Salsaa said Banksy was “trying to be a voice for those that cannot speak”.
The words “love” and “peace” can be seen painted on the barrier in the background.
Earlier this month, Banksy’s new street art in Birmingham, painted to highlight homelessness this Christmas, was vandalised after just one day.
