Academy Faces Backlash Over Silence on Oscar-Winning Filmmaker's Detention

Hamdan Ballal, co-director of 'No Other Land,' was assaulted and detained in the West Bank, prompting criticism of the Academy's muted response as its Board of Governors holds an emergency meeting.

Hamdan Ballal, Palestinian co-director of the Oscar-winning documentary 'No Other Land,' was attacked by settlers and detained by Israeli forces in the West Bank earlier this week.
Ballal was held blindfolded for 24 hours and mocked by soldiers referencing his Oscar win before being released; he is now recovering from his injuries.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences released a vague statement condemning harm to artists but did not specifically mention Ballal or his film, drawing widespread criticism.
Over 500 Academy members, including prominent figures like Mark Ruffalo and Ava DuVernay, signed an open letter condemning the Academy's lack of direct support for Ballal.
The Academy Board of Governors is currently holding an emergency meeting to address the backlash and consider further action as global calls for artistic freedom and accountability grow.