Vatican Removes Nativity Scene Depicting Baby Jesus on a Keffiyeh Amid Backlash

A seasonal nativity scene displayed at the Vatican has been removed after sparking controversy due to its portrayal of the baby Jesus lying on a keffiyeh, a traditional scarf worn by Palestinians as a national symbol. The nativity scene, titled "Nativity of Bethlehem 2024," was designed by Palestinian artists Johny Andonia and Faten Nastas Mitwasi, both hailing from Bethlehem.

The keffiyeh-draped cradle, displayed in the Paul VI Hall, was part of a larger exhibition that included other nativity scenes. The controversial image, however, quickly attracted backlash for its political implications, with critics arguing that it symbolized the conflation of the Christian tradition with contemporary political issues related to Palestine.

At the unveiling of the scene, Pope Francis called on attendees to remember those suffering from the tragedies of war, specifically referencing Bethlehem and other parts of the world. The Vatican, however, did not provide a specific reason for the scene’s removal, nor did it comment on whether the decision had political implications.

Political Context and Vatican's Stance

The nativity scene was organized by the Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs in Palestine, a body associated with the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), and the Palestinian embassy to the Vatican. This collaboration underscores the deep political context in which the scene was created, as it was introduced amidst growing tensions surrounding the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The Vatican’s position on the conflict has drawn attention, especially Pope Francis' recent comments on the war between Israel and Hamas. The Pope’s comments, including those about the technical definition of genocide, have caused tension among some Jewish and Israeli communities, with many condemning the remarks as biased.

The display's controversial nature also lies in its suggestion that Jesus was Palestinian, a view that has been politically charged in past years. Israeli officials, particularly in 2013 when Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas made similar remarks, have criticized the association of Jesus with Palestinian identity.