Syrians attend Christmas mass in solidarity with Gaza

Christmas cheer has deserted the streets of Syria's cities, where the main churches have limited celebrations to prayers in solidarity with Gaza. 

The northern Syrian city's central district of Azizia is usually home to a bustling festive market. This year, the main square is almost empty and there are no Christmas decorations in sight.

The Syrian Catholic Church was not alone, with the leaders of three of Syria's major churches announced they were cancelling Christmas festivities and limiting celebrations to religious ceremonies.