Int’l Resistance Film Festival rails against global cinematic silence on Gaza war
The International Resistance Film Festival sharply criticized the lack of response from prominent global film festivals regarding the ongoing violence in Gaza.
Secretary Jalal Ghaffari voiced concerns over the silence surrounding the tragic loss of life, stating that over 50,000 innocent women, children, and civilians have been killed in the region over the past year, according the official website of the event.
With 500 cinematic works centered on resistance submitted to this year’s festival, Ghaffari said that “Resistance cinema will be the voice of the oppressed worldwide.”
During a recent meeting with media activists from Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, and Armenia, Ghaffari reflected on the festival’s 40-year legacy in promoting cinema as a tool for resistance.
He pointed out that the festival stands out as the only international event dedicated to “supporting the oppressed.”
He added that cinema serves as a crucial cultural instrument for sharing powerful messages with the world, yet lamented that colonial powers have exploited it for their own inhumane agendas.
Ghaffari condemned the indifference of major film festivals to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
He noted, “No international cinematic institution has addressed these atrocities.” The festival aims to provide a platform for those silenced by oppression, offering an alternative narrative to the mainstream portrayal of victims in the film industry.
He criticized the manipulation of cinematic narratives by governments that seek to distort reality, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to amplifying marginalized voices.
Ghaffari expressed his vision for a future rooted in humanity, asserting, “The world of tomorrow will be built on kindness and justice.”
Following Ghaffari’s remarks, Esrafil Kaliji, head of the festival’s International Committee, acknowledged the valuable contributions of media activists at Cinema Museum of Iran
He stressed that the concept of resistance embodies one of the highest human values, which must be upheld within the film industry.
Kaliji articulated a clear stance against the prevailing global hegemonic order, asserting that “Resistance Cinema is determined to break this barrier.”
Kaliji urged international media professionals to embrace their role as truth-seeking journalists.
He expressed confidence that they would align with the cause of resistance, helping to disseminate its humanitarian message across the globe.