Credited from: HUFFPOST
Gal Gadot's Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony took place amidst a heated showdown between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli protesters on Monday, casting a shadow over what was meant to be a celebration of her career. The event was marked by emotional demonstrations on both sides, expressing dissent towards Gadot's vocal support of Israel, particularly following the escalation of conflict in the region. According to Los Angeles Times, the ceremony started 15 minutes late due to the protests, which featured signs proclaiming messages such as “Snow White Supports Genocide” and “Standing with Israel.”
Video footage captured the chaotic scene, as police attempted to manage the protests that were visibly growing in intensity. Gadot, known for her iconic role as Wonder Woman, delivered her speech despite the ongoing disruptions. “I’m just a girl from a town in Israel,” she said, expressing her disbelief at receiving such an honor. “This star will remind me that with hard work and passion, anything is possible,” she added, as protesters chanted in the background, illustrating the clash of emotions surrounding the event.
While no arrests were confirmed, reports indicated that several individuals were handcuffed, with protests intensifying over the tensions arising from the long-standing and volatile Israel-Palestine conflict. Gadot’s public support for Israel and past service in the Israel Defense Forces has been a source of both admiration and controversy, particularly in recent months, following exacerbated tensions beginning with the Hamas-led assaults on October 7, 2023.
As a political battleground, Hollywood has increasingly become the site of protests and counter-protests related to global issues. With Gadot recently receiving an international leadership award from the Anti-Defamation League, the ceremony appears to reflect a broader trend of celebrities navigating their stances on complex international conflicts. In her address to the audience, she refrained from mentioning the protests directly, maintaining a focus on the milestone in her career.
Her steadfast position regarding Israel, reinforced by her personal experiences and heartfelt messages during past conflicts, continues to fuel debate among fans and activists alike. The tensions at the ceremony symbolize not only the divide over the Israel-Palestine issue but also the significant impact of public figures in political discourse.
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