Berlinale Faces Criticism Over Antisemitic Statements and BDS Support

Speeches by Tilda Swinton and others draw backlash for controversial remarks on Israel, prompting investigations into potential political offenses.

Tilda Swinton used her Berlinale speech to criticize Israel and express support for the BDS movement, which advocates for boycotts against the Jewish state.
Chinese director Jun Li and Iranian actor Erfan Shekarriz also made controversial statements, with Shekarriz's remarks including the banned slogan 'From the river to the sea,' interpreted as a call for Israel's destruction.
The Berlinale leadership, under Tricia Tuttle, has faced scrutiny for allowing such statements, despite expressing regret over the incidents.
Germany's State Protection Agency is investigating whether the remarks constitute political offenses, reflecting the gravity of the accusations.
The events have reignited debates over antisemitism and freedom of expression in cultural institutions, with mixed public and critical reactions.