While receiving an award at the San Sebastian Film Festival, Javier Bardem used the platform to address the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The actor took a moment during his acceptance speech to express his thoughts on the pressing issue, adding a powerful message to the event.
Appreciating his courage to speak about the issue at a platform, Mark Ruffalo took to his X handle and shared his video.He also wrote words of praise for the Spanish star.
Check out his post here:
He wrote, ‘Thank you Javier Bardem for your decency, your courage, and love for all human beings. You are a beacon of light, amigo.’
During his speech, Javier Bardem condemned both Hamas’ recent attacks and the severe consequences faced by the Palestinian population. He called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages by Hamas, and urged that both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Hamas leaders responsible for the October 7 attacks be held accountable by the International Criminal Court.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Javier Bardem shared his reasons for addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict. He highlighted the importance of contributing to efforts toward peace, stressing that a shift in approach is essential for achieving different, more positive outcomes. Bardem emphasized the necessity of fostering a culture of peace and coexistence.
Bardem’s comments were made prior to Iran’s attack on Israel on Tuesday. He emphasized that true security and prosperity for Israel, along with the well-being and future of a free Palestine, can only be achieved through fostering a culture of peace, coexistence, and mutual respect.
Bardem also voiced his criticism of the unending cycle of violence, stressing that delaying negotiations or reverting to the previous status quo would only prolong the conflict. He warned that this path, marked by continuous violations of international law, risks perpetuating the war and could ultimately lead to devastating consequences.
Bardem underscored the severe human cost of the conflict, drawing attention to the violations of human rights and international law. He pointed out the devastating impact of restricting essential resources like food, water, and medicine, particularly on children, highlighting how such trauma could affect generations to come. He stressed the importance of not remaining indifferent to these atrocities.
Javier Bardem has a history of using his platform to address global issues. In 2014, he signed an open letter advocating for peace during the Israel-Hamas conflict. Earlier, he spoke to a United Nations committee about the refugee crisis in Western Sahara, a subject he also narrated a documentary on. Additionally, Bardem is an environmental advocate, addressing the UN in 2019 on the urgent need for ocean conservation.
