Berlin film festival faces new antisemitism accusations DW 02/20/2025
Briefly

The Berlin International Film Festival is under scrutiny following an incident involving a speech by Iranian actor Erfan Shekarriz, read by director Jun Li, critiquing the German government's support of Israel amidst the Palestinian struggle. The speech invoked the contentious slogan, 'From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,' which has faced divisive interpretations—some view it as a call for peace, while others see it as an incitement against Israel. This controversy raises questions about freedom of speech and the German legal system's inconsistent handling of such political expressions.
The speech criticized the German government for backing the 'apartheid, genocide and brutal extermination of the Palestinian people,' igniting political controversy at the festival.
Critics argue that interpretations of the slogan 'From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free' vary, complicating legal responses and its implications for free speech.
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