Translated by Sama Marwan,
The Palestinian cause always occupies the minds and thoughts of Arab creatives across all fields and artistic gatherings, often imposing itself on the atmosphere of cultural celebrations, whether in festivals, exhibitions, seminars, or various forms of art.
This was evident at the Alexandria International Film Festival, where a photo exhibition titled “Palestine” was held as part of its 40th edition, under the presidency of critic Amir Abaza, president of the Association of Film Writers and Critics and head of the festival, dedicated to the performer Nelly.
The exhibition’s opening was attended by Dr. Wafik Shahada Abu Saido, the Consul General of the State of Palestine in Alexandria, and featured 13 photographers from the Gaza Strip.
The photos highlighted how Palestine has suffered from the ravages of the brutal Israeli aggression, as well as showcasing images of Palestine before the genocide in Gaza.
The Alexandria Festival is one of the first festivals to support the Palestinian cause and was the first to announce the Jerusalem Award, which has since been adopted by seven other Arab film festivals.
In light of the atrocities being committed in Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem by the Israeli occupiers, the festival, under the leadership of Amir Abaza, decided to hold a “Day for Palestine” that included a photo exhibition, film screenings, and a national artistic evening featuring the Palestinian band, noting that all members of the musical group are from Gaza and are “displaced.”