US President Barack Obama visited Bethlehem's Nativity Church today later than scheduled due to bad weather and an extended meeting with Israeli prime minister.


Meanwhile, strong winds blowing clouds of dust grounded Obama's helicopter, forcing the US leader to make the short journey from Jerusalem to Bethlehem by motorcade.

The route took Obama through a checkpoint in Israel's wall in the occupied West Bank

In Bethlehem, Obama was greeted by President Mahmoud Abbas, mayor Vera Baboun and clergy at the Nativity Church, the traditional site of Jesus's birth