Palestinian Community Celebrates Oscar Win Amid Hardships
Residents of Masafer Yatta in the occupied West Bank cheered as No Other Land, a documentary depicting their struggles, won an Academy Award. The film, co-directed by Palestinian journalist Basel Adra and Israeli filmmaker Yuval Abraham, documents the ongoing demolitions and forced displacement in the region. Many hope the film’s recognition will draw global attention to their plight. However, since its release, threats against Adra’s family have increased, including attacks by settlers and detentions by the military.
Film Exposes Years of Demolitions and Displacement
The documentary captures years of destruction in Masafer Yatta, where Israel designated the land a military training zone in the 1980s. In 2022, the Israeli Supreme Court upheld an expulsion order affecting around 1,000 residents. Though most remain, Israeli forces regularly demolish homes, water tanks, and olive orchards. Residents fear mass expulsions could happen at any time. Just last week, Israeli troops tore down a Palestinian family’s shed in the area, continuing a pattern of demolitions.
Settler Violence and Military Presence Escalate
Since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, Israeli settler outposts around Masafer Yatta have multiplied, backed by the military. Palestinian shepherds report being unable to graze their livestock due to settler attacks and drone surveillance. Some families have been driven out, with homes destroyed and furniture burned. Residents say they live in constant fear of violence and forced removal.
Mixed Reception in Israel Amid Ongoing Conflict
While No Other Land has won international acclaim, its reception in Israel has been largely negative. The film’s Israeli co-director, Abraham, faced backlash for calling for an end to the war in Gaza without initially mentioning Hamas’ attack. Israeli officials, including Culture Minister Miki Zohar, criticized the film, calling it a distortion of reality. Unlike past Israeli films celebrated abroad, No Other Land has received little media attention domestically, reflecting the nation’s trauma post-October 7.
A Call for Justice and Recognition
In his Oscar acceptance speech, Basel Adra urged the world to stop “ethnic cleansing” in Palestine. He expressed hope that his newborn daughter would not experience the same violence and displacement he has endured. Meanwhile, back home, his brother Salem Adra monitors security cameras, bracing for the next attack.
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Palestinians hope ‘No Other Land’ Oscar win brings help as they face possible Israeli expulsion
Photo by Mirko Fabian on Unsplash
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