(TASSAWAR NEWS) – Israeli actress Gal Gadot will not attend the Venice Film Festival this year amid mounting protests over her perceived support for Israel during its ongoing military campaign in Gaza.
Gadot, 40, stars in In The Hand of Dante, one of the films premiering at the prestigious festival. However, organisers feared that her presence could act as a “lightning rod” for demonstrations, as activists plan widespread protests condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Security has already been ramped up around the festival, with body scanners, bag checks, and a heavy police presence safeguarding the main venues. A “ring of steel” has been set up to control crowds and monitor all delegates and ticket holders.
Activist group Artists4Palestine has called on festival organisers, the Venice Biennale, to withdraw invitations to Gadot, Gerard Butler (her co-star), and “any celebrity who publicly and actively supports genocide.”
Festival director Alberto Barbero confirmed earlier this week that Gadot will not be attending.
The development highlights the growing tension between global cultural events and political conflicts, with the Venice Film Festival becoming the latest platform where art and politics collide.
