Jennifer Lawrence Calls Gaza Crisis a ‘Genocide’ at San Sebastian Film Festival
At a press conference during the San Sebastian
Film Festival on Friday, Jennifer Lawrence delivered a powerful statement
condemning the ongoing violence in Gaza, calling it “no less than a genocide.”
Lawrence, who was in Spain to present her
latest film Die My Love and receive the
festival’s prestigious Donostia Award for lifetime achievement, was repeatedly
asked about her views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Despite attempts by
moderators to steer the conversation away from politics, the Oscar-winning
actress addressed the topic directly toward the end of the event.
“I’m terrified and it’s mortifying,” Lawrence
said when asked about the situation in Gaza. “What’s happening is no less than
a genocide and it’s unacceptable. I’m terrified for my children, for all of our
children.”
Her comments came after mounting international
pressure on public figures to speak out about the escalating humanitarian
crisis in the region. While many celebrities have chosen to stay silent or
issue vague statements, Lawrence’s direct and emotionally charged response
marked one of the most forthright condemnations of the conflict from a
high-profile Hollywood figure.
The audience responded with a mix of surprise
and applause, and the moment quickly went viral across social media platforms.
Clips of the statement were shared widely, sparking praise from human rights
advocates and criticism from pro-Israel commentators, highlighting the deep
divisions the issue continues to provoke.
Lawrence has previously spoken out on various
social justice causes, but this marks one of her most politically charged
public remarks in recent years. Known for her candor and outspokenness, she has
used her platform in the past to support women’s rights, climate change
awareness, and gun control.
At the festival, Lawrence also promoted Die My Love, a psychological drama in which
she plays a woman grappling with mental illness and motherhood. The film has
received strong early reviews and is expected to feature prominently in this
year’s awards season.
Despite the celebratory tone of the event, Lawrence’s comments ensured that the ongoing crisis in Gaza remained front and center—reminding audiences that some artists are still willing to speak out, even when it’s uncomfortable.
