Pro-Israel and Pro-Palestine Protests Erupt at Gal Gadot’s Controversial Screening

Tensions escalated in Los Angeles as actress Gal Gadot hosted a screening near the Museum of Tolerance, showcasing unedited Hamas attack videos in “Bearing Witness to the October 7 Massacre.” The event fueled protests from both pro-Israel and pro-Palestine groups, resulting in a brief clash.

The footage presented IDF materials from the Oct. 7 attack, prompting controversy for not addressing the Palestinian death toll, which exceeds 10,500 according to the Gaza health ministry. Amid heightened emotions, the Los Angeles Police Department reported two battery incidents, with victims declining medical assistance. Surprisingly, no arrests were made.

Gal Gadot’s screening had already stirred controversy, facing social media threats and accusations of genocide. The actress’s vocal support for Israel, evident in posts like “I stand with Israel, you should too,” further intensified the divisive atmosphere.

Approximately 200 people, including Israeli officials and Hollywood executives, attended the Gal Gadot’s screening, while around 50 protesters gathered outside with signs reading “Anti-Zionism ≠ Antisemitism” and “The Museum of Tolerance is showing a pro-genocide film.” Some waved Israeli flags and called for the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Notably absent from the event, Gal Gadot has yet to make a public statement. The actress, a former IDF member, has consistently advocated for Israel, sharing images and videos of Hamas-held hostages with the hashtag #NoHostageLeftBehind.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for unity during these turbulent times. “We cannot allow current worldwide tension to devolve into this unacceptable violence in our city. This is a time of immense pain and distress for thousands of Angelenos. We must stand together,” she urged.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Hindustan Times