Critics paint over Banksy Bethlehem murals

Though his intention was to shed light on the plight of Bethlehem residents, British graffiti artist Banksy has received a poor review of some of the artworks he has stencilled around the West Bank town.

Unknown individuals have painted over one of the murals the pop artist recently created, while another was partially covered over, according to local reports.

The painted-over mural had depicted a satirical scene where an Israeli soldier checked the identity papers of a donkey.

Some residents said they found the work insulting and likened it to the artist calling Palestinians donkeys.

Others, however, praised the artist's commentary on the numerous military checkpoints in the area and how these securitymeasures can paralyze the town's daily life.

Black paint was also daubed onto a mural featuring Banksy's trademark stencilled rat, which is depicted aiming stones at a military watchtower.

Other works, including a large image of a bulletproof-vest-wearing dove and a little girl frisking a soldier, are still intact.

Officials have praised Banksy for exporting his annual, month-long Santa's Ghetto art exhibit and fundraiser from London to Bethlehem, which in the past has depended on tourism. Visitor numbers have been low for years, with many blaming Israel's concrete barrier snaking around the town.

Banksy, who has kept his identity hidden despite his status as one of today's most popular British artists, also enlisted arts colleagues from Europe and North America to create their own public wall art around Bethlehem and send works for a related exhibit opposite the Church of the Nativity in the town's Manger Square.

Artwork by Banksy and the other artists is being showcased inside a converted Bethlehem shop and will be auctioned for charity.