The defiant spirits of Arab populations across the region refuse to die out in the face of unrest, violence, and devastating wars.
Time and again, Arabs have proved that no corrupt government, no brutal dictator, and no ongoing struggles will stop them from living life to the fullest. Every holiday season, hope and joy - even if only the tiniest bit of them - resurface amid chaos and wars.
This Christmas is no different in war-ridden Syria, occupied Palestine, and protest-hit Lebanon and Iraq. Despite the struggles and difficulties people are facing in these countries, they're sending the world a message of perseverance.
Here's a glimpse into the symbolic ways they're choosing to celebrate:
Lebanon's own Christmas decorations, trees, and chants
1. Revolution trees are up
The ongoing uprising against the country's ruling elite which started on Oct. 17 is leaving its marks on this year's Christmas decorations all over Lebanon.
Protestors are putting up trees decorated with the Lebanese flag and a raised fist sign that has become the symbol of the revolution.
2. A protest-inspired tree in Jal El Dib
3. Christmas has seeped into demonstrators' chants
Iraq mourns its martyrs with special ornaments
4. Christmas trees pay tribute to the martyrs of an ongoing revolution
Iraqis have been protesting against their government for weeks. Their peaceful demonstrations have been met with brutal violence on part of riot police who have so far killed over 400 protestors.
Christmas trees put up in Baghdad this year pay tribute to those who lost their lives fighting for a better country.
5. Spent tear gas cans hang on trees as a reminder
6. Many Iraqi Christians opted for no celebrations this year
As bloodshed hasn't stopped since October in Iraq, many local Christians declared they won't be celebrating Christmas this year. They have also decided to donate the money usually spent on decorations to help treat the wounded protestors.
Muslims in the country have since put up a Christmas tree in Tahrir Square as a sign of unity; the tree is covered with photos of the souls lost to the protests.
Syria's civil war is put aside to celebrate Christmas
7. Latakia shines after years of violence
Syria's ongoing war has never stopped the country's Christian population from marking Christmas with prayers and festivities. Things weren't different in Latakia where a huge tree was put up to mark the season.
8. A heartwarming message of hope from Syrian children
9. Syria's capital, Damascus, celebrates with parades and decorations like it's the happiest city in the world
Palestine celebrates despite its occupation
10. Palestinian defiance on full display
Israel, the occupying force that's been illegally residing in Palestine, banned Christians from visiting Bethlehem and Jerusalem during Christmas this year. Despite this decision, Palestinians are adamant on resisting in every way they can.
This month, those living in occupied Jerusalem lit up a tall Christmas tree in their city.
11. A sweet celebration
Palestinian chef Elia Samir Khair resists in his own way by building a gingerbread house in Bethlehem's town of Beit Sahour.
