We call on all global and South African media, film, and cultural institutions to cut cultural, diplomatic, and economic relations with Israel. Immediate global action is needed to hold accountable those responsible for potential war crimes, including acts of genocide, against civilians and media workers in Palestine. We demand urgent international intervention to protect journalists and filmmakers, address the humanitarian crisis, and bring an end to impunity for these grave violations.
The Documentary Filmmakers Association of South Africa (DFA) condemns Israel’s actions in Palestine and unequivocally denounces the forced removal of civilians and the obstruction of humanitarian aid. We stand in solidarity with the call for an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages and prisoners.
The DFA supports South Africa’s decision to refer Israel’s actions to the International Court of Justice, drawing attention to violations of international law that bear similarities to, or exceed, the racial segregation of apartheid. We are guided by South Africa’s anti-apartheid legacy and our responsibility as documentary filmmakers to support oppressed and marginalised communities across Africa and beyond. As such, we oppose Israeli apartheid and colonial occupation, standing with Palestinians in their struggle for freedom, dignity, justice, and self-determination, as they once stood with us during our own fight for liberation.
Documentary filmmakers have a duty to bear witness, and we cannot ignore the suffering displayed on screens around the world. In the last 12 months, over 43 061 Palestinians—primarily women and children—have lost their lives, with more than 95 000 injured. These figures only account for known deaths, with experts suggesting the true toll may be even higher. Civilian suffering is worsened by famine, disease, and the widespread destruction of health, cultural, and educational facilities. In addition, more than 1700 Israelis, including over 900 civilians, have also lost their lives.
We vehemently condemn the killing, imprisonment, and persecution of media workers in Palestine and Lebanon. As part of a global community of media professionals, we understand that any attack on journalists reverberates across our industry. Reports indicate that up to 176 media workers have lost their lives over the past year, according to the International Federation of Journalists, while the Committee to Protect Journalists is investigating the targeted killings of five journalists, with ten additional cases under review. The Israeli Defence Forces’ systematic shutdown of media outlets, restrictions on independent access to conflict zones, and violence against our colleagues set a dangerous precedent for media workers everywhere.
We call on all progressive media, film, and cultural institutions to acknowledge the risks faced by Palestinian and pro-Palestinian voices. Together, we must protect freedom of expression, foster critical dialogue, and safeguard storytellers who conscientiously object to working with media outlets, festivals, and institutions that have not divested from Israel.
Finally, we urge the United Nations and other international bodies to intensify efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Palestine and Lebanon. Swift action is required to hold Israel accountable for war crimes and genocidal actions, ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice and that the ongoing atrocities against civilians and media workers are stopped.
Spokespersons on behalf of Documentary Filmmakers Association:
Spokespersons on behalf of Documentary Filmmakers Association:
- Arya Lalloo – DFA Member and Cinema Solidarity Member
- Sifiso Khanyile – DFA Member
- Alette Schoon – DFA Board Member
EMAIL: dfa.board@docfilmsa.com