In pictures: Bethlehem's woes

Israeli troops are tightening their grip in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, where they are besieging some 200 Palestinian gunmen and civilians sheltering in the Church of the Nativity.

The operation has sparked criticism from the Vatican, as Israelis and Palestinians blame each other for damaging the church - revered by Christians as the birthplace of Jesus - and starting a fire nearby.

Israeli forces have been in Bethlehem since 2 April

Wreckage from the recent fighting litters the town

Life is increasingly difficult for ordinary residents

Negotiating the city streets is a dangerous business

A fire broke out early on Monday near the Church of the Nativity

The media have been able to see little of the fighting...

... but local churchmen have been protesting against the stand-off