Hold Off on the Frankincense and Myrrh

The other day, Trump announced that the U.S. embassy in Israel would be moved to Jerusalem, recognizing it as nation's capital.  This brought about a great deal of concern for the added risk of violence, most particularly in the Middle East.  Yesterday, the following statement was made --

“The decision [by Trump] has taken away the joy of the holiday, and we will thus cancel the festivities this year.”

-- Mayor Ali Salam, of Nazareth

No, really. This is NOT satire from The Onion. Trump has actually caused Christmas celebrations to be canceled in NAZARETH. The town that Christians around the world believe is the hometown of Jesus.  

Well-played, sir.

The city council's announcement was made in part out of protest -- taking the "joy" out of the festivities -- and in part from concern was that it would be the focal point for riots and violence, since it draws around 100,000 people to the holy day.  All activities haven't been canceled, notably, the Christmas Market stalls will remain open, but there will be no artistic  performances on any of the outdoor stages.  Canceling the events is a major tourist blow to Nazareth and not a decision made lightly.

We are looking forward now to "Fox News" slamming Trump for his negative part in the War on Christmas...  And no, we are waiting with any particular anticipation.  But we do add this to the list of "Imagine if Barack Obama..." ponderings, imagining how the far right would react if an action taking by Mr. Obama had cause Christmas festivities to be canceled in NAZARETH.