Gal Gadot honoured by Hadassah at Jerusalem Film Festival opening
Actress praised for global advocacy and support for Israel during emotional ceremony in front of UK delegates
Gal Gadot was honoured by Hadassah UK and the Jerusalem Film Festival this week for her outspoken support of Israel and her work in global cinema, during a moving ceremony that opened the 42nd edition of the festival.
The Israeli actress, best known for her role in Wonder Woman, took to the stage to call for peace, the return of the hostages, and renewed hope for the country, saying the arts must lead with “truth and courage in dark times”.
She received two awards on the night: the festival’s Award for Outstanding contribution to International Cinema, and a special honour from the Hadassah Women’s Organisation recognising her “unwavering support for Israel” and use of her platform to speak out during the war.
Hadassah UK and other branches around the world are part of a global charitable initiative to support the Hadassah hospitals in Jerusalem and their associated medical, dentistry, nursing and pharmacology schools.
Following the ceremony, Gadot reflected on the moment in a post to her 100 million Instagram followers, calling it “an unforgettable night”.
“Nearly 20 years ago, I took my first steps in this industry with no idea where the journey would lead. Today, I look back with pride, and even more so with deep gratitude,” she wrote.
“To Hadassah, for an award that celebrates dreaming big and making it happen – thank you. Your love and support are what keep me going. Here’s to more stories, more screens, and more dreams.”
Hadassah International and Hadassah UK were present at the red-carpet event in Jerusalem, which marked the official launch of a new global initiative aimed at “uniting communities through healing and hope”.
Organisers described the evening as a celebration of “Israeli resilience, creativity, and leadership”, drawing artists, diplomats, medics, and donors to the opening gala.
A Hadassah spokesperson said: “Just as medicine heals the body, the arts can heal the soul, bridge communities and inspire global action.”
The UK branch of the women-led health and humanitarian organisation is encouraging supporters to get involved in its new initiative.
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