The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) issued an apology on March 29, 2025, for failing to mention Oscar-winning co-director Hamdan Ballal and his film in their initial response to his recent attack and detention in the West Bank. The apology came after a special meeting of the Academy’s Board of Governors, which addressed the backlash over their previous statement regarding the violence against Ballal.
- Academy apologizes for initial statement omission
- Hamdan Ballal attacked and detained in West Bank
- AMPAS condemns violence against artists globally
- Co-director Yuval Abraham criticizes Academy's silence
- Previous letter failed to mention Ballal specifically
- Call for stronger support for Palestinian artists
Hamdan Ballal, co-director of the Oscar-winning film “No Other Land,” was reportedly attacked and detained by Israeli soldiers and settlers. The Academy’s initial response, sent on Wednesday, condemned violence against artists but did not specifically mention Ballal or his film. This omission drew criticism from co-director Yuval Abraham, who expressed disappointment that the Academy did not publicly support Ballal during his ordeal.
In their apology, AMPAS CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang acknowledged the oversight and expressed regret for not directly addressing Ballal by name. They emphasized the Academy’s commitment to condemning violence and supporting free speech. The statement aimed to reassure artists that the Academy stands against any form of suppression related to artistic expression.
Abraham highlighted the significance of the Academy’s silence, noting that Ballal was targeted not only for his work but also for his identity as a Palestinian. He urged the Academy to take a stronger stance by issuing a statement condemning the attack on Ballal and the broader issues facing the Masafer Yatta community. This incident has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of cultural institutions in addressing violence against artists.
The Academy’s response reflects the ongoing challenges faced by artists in conflict zones and the importance of institutional support in advocating for freedom of expression. As the situation develops, the Academy’s actions may influence how similar incidents are addressed in the future.
The Academy’s apology marks a significant step in acknowledging the challenges faced by artists like Hamdan Ballal. It underscores the importance of institutional support in promoting free expression and addressing violence against artists globally.
