Academy Apologizes for Failing to Support Filmmaker Hamdan Ballal After Attack

The Academy acknowledged its shortcomings in addressing the assault and detention of the Oscar-winning co-director of 'No Other Land,' issuing a formal apology after backlash from over 600 members.

Hamdan Ballal, co-director of the Oscar-winning documentary 'No Other Land,' was attacked by Israeli settlers and detained by soldiers in the West Bank, sustaining injuries.
The Academy initially issued a vague statement that did not name Ballal or the film, prompting widespread criticism from members and the international film community.
Over 600 Academy members, including prominent actors and filmmakers, signed an open letter condemning the organization's lack of support for Ballal and the film.
Following an emergency board meeting, the Academy issued an apology on Friday, directly acknowledging Ballal and the film, and condemning violence against artists.
Ballal has been released from detention but remains at risk, with the incident drawing attention to escalating violence in Masafer Yatta and the risks faced by artists advocating for Palestinian rights.