Javier Bardem Calls for ‘No to War’ and ‘Free Palestine’ While Presenting at Academy Awards

email: online@newsofbahrain.com 

Los Angeles: Oscar-winning Spanish actor Javier Bardem delivered a brief political message during the 98th Academy Awards on Sunday, speaking out against war and expressing support for Palestinians while presenting the Best International Feature Film category.

Bardem appeared on stage alongside actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas to introduce the nominees. Before announcing the winner, the actor addressed the audience with a short statement, saying, “No to war. And free Palestine.”

He also wore a large red badge reading “No a la guerra,” Spanish for “No to war,” along with a pin referencing Palestine.

Bardem’s on-stage remarks drew a largely positive response from parts of the audience, with cheers and applause heard inside the theatre.

Speaking later on the red carpet, Bardem said the ceremony provided an opportunity to speak out. “We are here to celebrate movies, and it’s a great moment, but also there’s a great opportunity to say things like no to war, no to this illegal war that is creating so many deaths,” he said.

He added that the badge he wore was the same one he used in 2003 while protesting the Iraq War.

Bardem has previously spoken publicly about the Israel–Palestine conflict and has been a vocal critic of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. At earlier events, he has worn a keffiyeh in solidarity with Palestinians and is among more than 1,300 artists who have pledged not to collaborate with Israeli film institutions linked to the conflict.