Gal Gadot, the renowned Israeli actress, has ignited a firestorm of debate with her bold condemnation of America following her appearance at the 2025 Oscars. Speaking at the Anti-Defamation League’s International Leadership Awards on March 5, 2025, Gadot expressed shock and dismay at what she perceives as a celebration of violence against Jews, particularly in the wake of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. Her powerful speech, delivered just days after the Academy Awards on March 2, highlighted rising antisemitism and the lack of Hollywood support for Jewish voices, captivating audiences worldwide.
Gal Gadot’s Emotional Oscars Reaction
A Star’s Outcry Against Antisemitism
Fresh from presenting at the 97th Academy Awards, Gal Gadot didn’t hold back. Honored by the ADL for her unwavering support of Israel, the Wonder Woman star addressed a room of 4,000 attendees in New York City, declaring, “Never did I imagine that on the streets of the United States… we would see people not condemning Hamas, but celebrating, justifying, and cheering on a massacre of Jews.” Her words reflect a deep frustration with what she sees as a troubling cultural shift in America, especially poignant given the Oscars’ global stage.
The October 7 Wake-Up Call
Gadot tied her remarks to the Hamas-led attack on Israel, which marked the deadliest day in the nation’s history. “October 7th showed us that what happens to Jews anywhere affects Jews everywhere,” she emphasized, calling for the release of hostages still held in Gaza. Her speech underscored a personal transformation—once reluctant to engage in politics, the actress now feels compelled to speak out as antisemitism surges globally.
Hollywood’s Silence Under Fire
Lack of Support Stings
Gadot didn’t shy away from critiquing her own industry. “We can’t just wait, hoping for support from those who have no intention of standing with us,” she said, subtly jabbing at Hollywood’s muted response to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Her comments resonate amid reports that she faced backlash for opting not to present the Best Documentary Oscar, won by the pro-Palestinian film No Other Land—a rumor her team swiftly debunked, clarifying she presented Best Visual Effects instead.
Jewish Identity in the Spotlight
“My name is Gal, and I’m Jewish. Isn’t it crazy that just saying that feels like a controversial statement?” Gadot asked, highlighting the “deeply unsettling” reality for Jewish individuals today. Her pride in her heritage, coupled with her call to action, positions her as a leading voice against hate at a time when many celebrities remain silent.
A Global Call to Action
Gadot’s speech transcends entertainment, urging collective resistance against intolerance. As she prepares for her role as the Evil Queen in Disney’s Snow White, set for release on March 21, 2025, her off-screen courage continues to inspire. Her plea—“We need to stand up for ourselves”—echoes beyond the ADL event, challenging readers to confront bigotry head-on. Will her words spark change, or will they remain a lone cry in an industry hesitant to take a stand? The world is watching.
