What happened
Anti-Israel demonstrators interrupted the screening of the Israeli film “Hemda” (Bliss) at the Toronto International Film Festival on Tuesday. The protesters, who identified themselves as a coalition of Jewish filmmakers and artists, stormed the stage, accusing Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians.
Why it matters
The protest highlighted the ongoing tension surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and brought international attention to the screening event. With rising concerns over the plight of hostages taken by Hamas, the backlash from the audience against the protesters underscored support for Israel’s efforts.
Details
Activists interrupted the event, brandishing banners that read, “This film is funded by a state committing genocide of Palestinians” and chanting slogans like “Free Palestine” and “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.” The disruption prompted the audience to call for their removal and chant “Bring them home,” a plea for the release of hostages kidnapped by Hamas on October 7th.
Inside the Theater
“We didn’t see the protest going on outside, but we heard it. It was very vocal. The festival manager himself came to thank us for our courage,” said Shemi Zarhin, the film’s director. Eventually, the film proceeded calmly and beautifully, despite the initial chaos.
Outside the Theater
Dozens of activists demonstrated, echoing cries of “shame” and denouncing the film as funded by a “genocidal state.” Police and security eventually removed the protesters, allowing the screening to continue.
Reaction
Zarhin expressed gratitude for the audience’s support, describing their chants as deeply moving. He believed the film’s participation in the festival ignited significant discussion and highlighted support for Israel.
Background
The backdrop of these protests stems from the ongoing conflict in Gaza that erupted on October 7 after Hamas launched a massacre in southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. In response, Israel initiated a ground invasion aimed at dismantling Hamas and recovering the hostages.
Casualty Report
The Hamas-run Gaza health ministry claims over 41,000 people in Gaza have been killed or are presumed dead, a toll that lacks verification and does not distinguish between civilians and fighters. Israel reports around 17,000 combatants killed in battle and an additional 1,000 terrorists killed inside Israel on October 7. Israel denies the genocide accusations, emphasizing its efforts to minimize civilian casualties amid Hamas’ use of human shields. The Israeli toll in military operations stands at 344.
The Film “Hemda”
“Hemda,” directed by Shemi Zarhin, centers on a married couple, Effi and Sassi, who face challenges due to their son’s gambling debts and the interference of two young men in their lives. Despite the initial protests, the film was successfully screened and received well by those attending.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.