What's happened
Gal Gadot, known for her role as Wonder Woman, received the 2025 Genesis Prize for her advocacy for Israel amid ongoing conflict. She will donate her $1 million award to aid Israel’s recovery after the October 2023 Hamas attack, despite facing criticism and protests.
What's behind the headline?
The awarding of the Genesis Prize to Gadot underscores the intersection of celebrity influence and political identity. Her support for Israel, especially during a period of intense conflict, positions her as a figure of national pride for many Israelis but also as a target for criticism internationally. The controversy highlights how Hollywood and global public opinion are divided over the Israel-Hamas conflict. Gadot’s donation of her prize money to aid Israel’s recovery signals her commitment, but her outspoken stance has also intensified her exposure to threats and protests. This situation exemplifies how public figures can become symbols in geopolitical disputes, often risking personal and professional repercussions. The story foreshadows ongoing debates about the role of celebrities in political conflicts and the potential impact on their careers and personal safety. The next steps will likely involve increased security measures for Gadot and further polarization within the entertainment industry, reflecting broader societal divisions over the conflict.
What the papers say
The New Arab highlights Gadot’s vocal support and her donation to Israeli recovery efforts, emphasizing her personal and professional risks amid ongoing conflict. The Times of Israel praises her moral clarity and her role as a hero both on screen and in real life, noting her efforts to aid Israel and her resilience against criticism. The Independent details her background, her advocacy during the conflict, and the backlash she has faced, including protests and threats, illustrating the complex intersection of celebrity, politics, and activism. These sources collectively portray Gadot as a figure navigating significant controversy while maintaining her support for Israel, reflecting broader societal tensions over the conflict.
How we got here
The Genesis Prize, often called 'the Jewish Nobel,' is awarded annually to individuals for achievements and contributions aligned with Jewish values. Gadot, an Israeli actress and former soldier, has been a vocal supporter of Israel during its conflict with Hamas, which escalated after the October 2023 attack that resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and widespread Palestinian casualties. Her advocacy has included campaigning for hostages and promoting films documenting the conflict, amid significant backlash from pro-Palestinian groups and industry protests.
Go deeper
Common question
-
Who Is Eyal Adraee and What Is His Role in Israeli Military Messaging?
Eyal Adraee has been a prominent figure in Israel's military communication strategy, especially during recent conflicts. As the IDF spokesperson with a strong social media presence, his role has sparked questions about his influence and future. Many wonder why he might be leaving his position now and what his departure could mean for regional tensions. Additionally, the impact of military communication on regional stability and Israel's cultural diplomacy through figures like Gal Gadot are topics of growing interest. Below, we explore these questions and more to provide clarity on this complex situation.
More on these topics
-
Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
-
Gal Gadot is an Israeli actress, model, and producer. At age 18, she was crowned Miss Israel 2004. She then served two years in the Israel Defense Forces as a fitness/combat readiness instructor, after which she began studying law and international relati
-
Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
-
Gaza most commonly refers to:
Gaza Strip, a Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea
Gaza City, a city in the Gaza Strip
Gaza may also refer to:
-
The Genesis Prize is a $1 million annual prize awarded to Jewish people who have achieved significant professional success, in recognition of their accomplishments, contributions to humanity, and commitment to Jewish values.