Gal Gadot’s Hollywood Walk of Fame Ceremony Disrupted by Pro-Palestinian Protesters
Dozens of pro-Palestinian protesters disrupted the Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony honoring Israeli actress Gal Gadot in Los Angeles on Tuesday morning. The event, which was meant to celebrate Gadot’s contributions to the entertainment industry, turned tense as demonstrators gathered outside the tented area on Hollywood Boulevard. They carried signs with messages such as “Heroes Fight Like Palestinians” and “No Other Land Won Oscar,” according to Variety. The protesters chanted slogans like “Not another nickel, not another dime, no more money for Israel’s crime” and “Up, up with liberation, down, down with occupation” as Gadot was being honored by her Fast X co-star Vin Diesel and other industry figures.
Pro-Palestinian Demonstrators Voice Their Disapproval
The pro-Palestinian protesters expressed their upset over the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, particularly the situation in Gaza. One demonstrator told Variety that they were protesting because of the current events in the region and criticized Gadot for not using her platform to speak out against Israeli actions. “There’s no reason we should be celebrating an Israeli,” the protester said, accusing the 39-year-old actress of “keeping her head in the sand.” They emphasized that Gadot has the opportunity to educate herself and advocate for justice but has chosen not to. The protester added, “She has the ability to learn and read the same books that we read. There’s just no excuse.”
Pro-Israel Counter-Protesters Share Their Perspectives
Meanwhile, pro-Israel demonstrators also made their voices heard during the ceremony. One protester shared a personal and emotional account, stating that her friends were killed during the Nova Music Festival attack on October 7, 2023, when Hamas terrorists targeted Israeli civilians, leaving hundreds dead. She told Variety, “They come to our home and take us from our home and give us dead children. We don’t start war, we don’t want war at all.” The emotional exchange between the two sides highlighted the deep divisions and sensitivities surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict. According to Variety, the situation escalated briefly when a pro-Palestinian protester allegedly stole an Israeli flag, prompting the arrival of law enforcement officers.
Gal Gadot Accepts the Honor with Grace
Despite the tension and disruption, Gal Gadot remained composed and accepted the honor with grace. In her speech at the podium, she reflected on her journey, saying, “I’m just a girl from a town in Israel. This star will remind me that with hard work and passion and some faith, anything is possible.” Her words were a testament to her resilience and determination. Representatives for Gadot were not immediately available for comment when contacted by Page Six. The actress has been an outspoken supporter of Israel, particularly since the Hamas attack in October 2023, when she wrote on Instagram, “I stand with Israel. You should too. The goal of propaganda is to dehumanize. It works to dehumanize Israelis and it works to dehumanize Gazans.”
Gal Gadot’s Political Stance and Its Implications
Gadot’s vocal support for Israel has sparked tension in her professional life, particularly with her Snow White co-star Rachel Zegler, who has openly advocated for the Free Palestine movement. A source recently told People that the two actresses “are not friends” and have “nothing in common,” and they have been promoting their forthcoming Disney film separately. This tension underscores the challenges celebrities face when expressing political views, as it can impact their personal and professional relationships. Gadot’s unwavering stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict has made her a polarizing figure, with some praising her for standing up for her native country and others criticizing her for not advocating for Palestinian rights.
Conclusion: A Reflection of Broader Tensions
The disruption of Gal Gadot’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony serves as a microcosm of the broader tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict. The event brought to the forefront the deeply divided opinions and emotions of those involved, both protesters and supporters alike. While Gadot’s speech focused on hope and achievement, the protesters’ chants and signs highlighted the ongoing struggles and injustices they believe need attention. The incident also raises questions about the role of celebrities in political discourse and the challenges of navigating complex, deeply personal conflicts on a public stage. As the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve, moments like these remind us of the power of celebrity platforms and the responsibility that comes with them.