Up First from NPR Christmas In Bethlehem, Honduras Election Result, Immigration Crackdown
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Dec 25, 2025 
Hadil El-Shalchi, a foreign correspondent, reports on the joyous return of Christmas festivities in Bethlehem, a significant change after the somber impact of the Gaza war. Eder Peralta, an NPR reporter from Mexico City, delves into the complex political landscape following the contentious presidential election in Honduras, highlighting allegations of fraud and U.S. interests. Jasmine Garst discusses the heartbreaking stories of families torn apart by U.S. deportation policies, emphasizing how children are stepping into roles as caregivers in the wake of these challenges.
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Christmas Returns To Bethlehem
- Hadil El-Shalchi described Bethlehem's packed Manger Square with bagpipes, a scouts parade, and a towering Christmas tree returning after two years.
- Locals felt hopeful yet constrained by increased checkpoints and military raids across the West Bank.
Hope Amid Heightened Restrictions
- Residents expressed relief but described daily life in the West Bank as increasingly restrictive and akin to living in a prison.
- People were defiant, choosing to celebrate despite fear of military presence and long checkpoint delays.
Chaotic Honduras Vote Count
- Eder Peralta recounted the chaotic Honduran count where software failures and delayed tallies led to a late-night Zoom announcement of a winner on Christmas Eve.
- The declared victor, Nasri Asfura, won by less than 1% amid fraud claims and a refusing challenger.