Christmas preparations in the region – in pictures
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A man dressed as Santa Claus rings a bell while standing inside the giant Christmas tree set up in Iraq's predominantly Christian town of Qaraqosh, in northern Nineveh province. AFP -
A crowd gathers at the Qaraqosh Christmas tree. AFP -
People view the illuminated Christmas tree at Qaraqosh, often referred to as Iraq’s Christian capital. AFP -
An aerial view of the Christmas tree in Qaraqosh, with the Christmas star on top. AFP -
Fireworks mark a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in the ancient Lebanese city of Byblos. Reuters -
Musicians and other revellers in Santa Claus outfits take part in the Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Byblos. Reuters -
A crowd gathers for the illumination of a giant winged Christmas tree at Sassine Square, in the Achrafieh district of Lebanon's capital Beirut. AP Photo -
A brass band in festive attire perform at the launch of Christmas festivities at Sassine Square. AP Photo -
Santa Claus joins the fun at Beirut's Sassine Square. AP Photo -
Crowd members are silhouetted by the spectacular Christmas tree lighting display in Byblos, Lebanon. Reuters -
Fireworks burst over the the West Bank city of Ramallah as Palestinians gather for the lighting of the Christmas tree. AP Photo -
Crowds gather for celebrations marking the lighting of the Christmas tree in Ramallah. AFP
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