Introduction
The 97th Academy Awards sparked heated debate as No Other Land, a pro-Palestine documentary, clinched the Best Documentary Feature. Lebanese-American activist Mia Khalifa celebrated the win, amplifying its powerful message against Israeli occupation. Meanwhile, Israeli actress Gal Gadot faced scrutiny for reportedly dodging the presentation of the award, fueling speculation about her stance. This Oscar victory has divided Hollywood, spotlighting the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on a global stage. Here’s what unfolded and why it matters.
Main Content
No Other Land Makes History at the Oscars
On March 2, 2025, No Other Land, a joint Israeli-Palestinian production, won Best Documentary Feature at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Directed by Palestinian activist Basel Adra and Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham, the film exposes the destruction of Masafer Yatta in the West Bank by Israeli forces. Its raw depiction of occupation and resistance resonated with audiences, earning critical acclaim. During their acceptance speech, Adra and Abraham called for an end to the conflict, a moment that drew both cheers and jeers from the crowd.
The win marks a rare moment for Palestinian narratives in mainstream media, thrusting the plight of Palestinians into Hollywood’s spotlight. With the ongoing Gaza crisis and West Bank tensions, the film’s victory underscores a growing awareness of these issues in the U.S.
Mia Khalifa’s Vocal Support
Mia Khalifa, a former adult film star turned activist, took to X to celebrate the win. Posting “FREE PALESTINE” alongside clips of the speech, she hailed the film’s unflinching portrayal of occupation. Khalifa, who lost her Playboy deal in 2023 over pro-Palestinian remarks, has long used her platform to advocate for Palestine. Her reaction amplified the film’s message, reaching her millions of followers and igniting online discussions about Hollywood’s role in political discourse.
Gal Gadot’s Alleged Snub Sparks Controversy
Gal Gadot, known for Wonder Woman and her vocal support for Israel, was rumored to have switched presenting categories to avoid handing the Oscar to No Other Land. Reports suggest she opted to present Best Visual Effects instead, alongside Rachel Zegler. Neither Gadot nor the Academy has confirmed this, but her representatives denied the claims, asserting she was never slated for the documentary category. Still, the speculation fueled backlash, with critics linking it to her Israeli military background and pro-Israel stance.
The controversy highlights Hollywood’s deepening divide over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Gadot’s actions—or perceived actions—drawing sharp scrutiny from pro-Palestinian advocates.
Israel’s Reaction: Outrage and Denial
In Israel, the win triggered a firestorm. Government officials and media decried No Other Land as anti-Israeli propaganda, with some calling it a “meltdown” moment for the nation’s image. The film’s limited availability in Israel, accessible only via a left-wing site, further stoked tensions. Meanwhile, its international praise underscores a shifting global narrative—one that Israel struggles to counter.
Conclusion
The Oscar win for No Other Land transcends cinema, igniting fierce reactions from Mia Khalifa’s activism to Gal Gadot’s rumored retreat. As Hollywood grapples with its role in the Israeli-Palestinian debate, this moment signals a cultural shift. Will it push the industry toward bolder stances, or deepen its divisions? The world is watching.
