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A nativity scene at the Vatican depicting baby Jesus wrapped in a Palestinian keffiyeh has been removed after sparking backlash.

Pope Francis unveiled the display last Saturday as part of the annual exhibition at the Paul VI Hall, designed by Bethlehem-based artists Johny Andonia and Faten Nastas Mitwasi from Dar al-Kalima University.  

The scene featured a carved olive wood depiction of the Holy Family and a Bethlehem Star inscribed in Latin and Arabic with the message: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill to all people."

The use of the keffiyeh - a symbol of Palestinian identity and resistance against Israeli occupation - drew swift criticism, with some accusing the display of being a "blasphemous political stunt".

Faten Nastas Mitwasi, one of the artists behind the project, said the addition of the keffiyeh was a "gift from the Palestinians to the Vatican" and denied criticism that branded the traditional scarf as a religious symbol. 

She tells ������: "This installation work reflects the multiple identities of the Palestinian people, both Christians and Muslims, by presenting a local story that took place in Bethlehem 2000 years ago, using local materials and national symbols.

"The keffiyeh is not a symbol of violence. It is part of our cultural heritage. I feel that those who see it as a symbol of violence need to learn more about Palestinian history and culture.

"As a Christian Palestinian, I should have the freedom to create my nativity scene and use any Palestinian symbol I find suitable."

Palestinians have warmly welcomed the gesture from the seat of the Catholic Church, including Palestinian Christians. 

Christian media outlets reported that the Vatican removed the nativity scene earlier this week, but no official explanation has been provided.

Its inclusion in the nativity scene carried profound meaning, given Bethlehem’s significance as the birthplace of Jesus and its location in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.  

Following the unveiling, a Mass for Peace and a Ceasefire in Palestine was held at the Angeli Chapel, led by Ibrahim Faltas, Deputy Custodian of the Holy Land.

The event also served as an opportunity for Pope Francis to reiterate his calls for an end to the violence in Gaza. “These nativity scenes remind us of those who, in the land where the Son of God was born, continue to suffer due to the tragedy of war,” he said.

The Pope reflected on the symbolism of nativity scenes from Bethlehem, emphasising their universal message of hope and love.

"These nativity scenes remind us of those who, in the land where the Son of God was born, continue to suffer due to the tragedy of war," he added.

Ramzi Khouri, a senior member of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) executive committee, issued a statement conveying the gratitude of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas for the Pope’s ongoing support. Khouri praised the Vatican’s efforts to promote justice and an end to the war in Gaza.  

“The pope’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and his tireless efforts to end the war on Gaza resonate deeply with our people,” Khouri said in his message.  

The head of the Catholic Church's outspoken stance on Gaza has drawn criticism from pro-Israel figures, particularly after he called for an investigation into whether Israel’s actions in Gaza constitute genocide.

Editors note: This story has been updated on 13 December, 17:55 GMT, to include comment from Faten Nastas Mitwasi.