The recent escalation of conflict between Israeli forces and Hamas has dealt a severe blow to the tourism industry in both Israel and the Palestinian territories. With cancelled tours, empty hotels, and disrupted travel plans, the once-bustling tourism hotspots now bear a desolate look.

Bethlehem and Jerusalem, once vibrant with the hustle and bustle of tourists, now stand deserted, echoing the impact of the devastating attack by Hamas on October 7th. The repercussions have been felt across the region, with tour operators halting trips and major airlines ceasing operations to and from Israel. The conflict has led to the closure of renowned hotels, and several companies have suspended tours until 2024, underscoring the crippling effect on the tourism sector.

InterContinental Hotels, a prominent player in the industry, temporarily closed two of its hotels, while Isrotel, one of Israel's leading chains, faced the possibility of shutting down some of its properties as the industry grappled with the fallout. Amidst this turmoil, travelers have been left scrambling to reschedule their plans or seek refunds, with the future of tourism in the region shrouded in uncertainty.