Gal Gadot calls for hostage release and peace at Jerusalem Film Festival

In a heartfelt and emotional address, Gal Gadot took the stage at the opening ceremony of the 42nd Jerusalem Film Festival, voicing her hopes for the safe return of all hostages still held in Gaza and for an end to the war. The Wonder Woman star, dressed in a striking red halter gown and wearing a yellow pin symbolizing the hostages, received a standing ovation at the Sultan’s Pool amphitheater on Thursday night.

“Thank you so much for coming to celebrate Israeli cinema, this is always home,” Gadot said. “The reality outside is very complicated, and no place makes me more emotional than here.” She spoke of her recent visit to the Gaza Envelope region, noting, “It made me realize how important it is to people to tell their stories. I love my country and my people, and I hope we will all breathe calmly again once the hostages return home. I pray this war will end soon and there will be peace and security for everyone.”

The Jerusalem Film Festival presented Gadot with an award celebrating her extraordinary contribution to international cinema and her two decades of artistic achievement. In addition, Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, awarded her the “Power of Dreams” Award for her steadfast support of Israel and her advocacy for truth and justice on the global stage.

“Gal began her journey here in Israel and became one of the most recognized international stars while maintaining a strong connection to her roots,” said Hadassah President Carol Ann Schwartz, who presented the award alongside Dalia Itzik, chair of the Hadassah Medical Center board. “She is a groundbreaking woman who serves as an ambassador for Israel and the Jewish people wherever she is in the world.”

The festival, which has become a hallmark of Israel’s cultural calendar, was particularly electrified by Gadot’s presence, with staff and guests eagerly posing for photos with the Hollywood icon.

Also honored was Lawrence Bender, the acclaimed producer of films such as Pulp Fiction and Good Will Hunting. Bender, who has spent much of the past year in Israel producing Red Alert, a Keshet television series depicting the heroism of ordinary Israelis during the October 7 attacks, gave an emotional speech. “I realized it’s time to focus on my people,” he said. “Spending time in Israel has reminded me of the incredible strength and spirit here.”

Roni Mahadav-Levin, director of the Jerusalem Film Festival, noted that this was the second time the festival had taken place during wartime, emphasizing the importance of creative expression and rejecting calls for censorship and cancel culture. Despite some filmmakers declining to participate, many embraced the opportunity to showcase their work and stand in solidarity with Israeli cinema.

Gadot’s presence and her moving words underscored not only her connection to Israeli culture but also her role as a voice of hope in difficult times. Her commitment to telling stories whether through film or her own advocacy resonated deeply with the festival audience.

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