Actress Jennifer Lawrence criticized Israel during a recent press conference at the San Sebastian Film Festival, condemning what she referred to as “genocide” in Gaza. Notably, she did not address the hostages taken by Hamas on October 7, 2023, or the attacks that resulted in the deaths of more than 1,000 Jewish individuals.
While discussing the Gaza situation, she expressed her concerns, stating, “I’m scared, and that’s frustrating.” According to her, what’s happening amounts to more than just genocide and is unacceptable.
“I’m scared for my kids, for all of our children,” she added.
She went on to highlight her fears that the prevailing disrespect and divisive rhetoric in American politics would soon normalize, especially for young voters when they reach adulthood, lamenting, “Politicians are lying.”
She urged, “Even if everyone ignores what’s happening on one side of the world, it won’t be long until it’s on your side,” emphasizing her emotional turmoil over the issue.
Lawrence wished for a way to remedy the situation but expressed frustration that her words might only add fuel to existing conflicts, noting how complicated and dishonorable the situation is.
While discussing these issues, she did not mention the nearly 5,000 rockets fired by Hamas into Israeli neighborhoods on October 7, 2023, or the attacks that left 21 peaceful communities targeted and 1,195 individuals killed, many of whom were children and elderly. She also expressed concern for the 48 hostages still enduring horrific conditions under “Palestinians.”
She failed to clarify how Israel could be committing “genocide” when the Palestinian population has actually more than doubled over the last two decades, growing from about 3 million in 2000 to nearly 6 million today.
This isn’t the first time Lawrence has made controversial claims. In 2024, she claimed that if Trump won the election, he would “ban abortions,” a policy he’s never advocated during his campaign. She also made unfounded assertions about Mike Pence and claimed to be the first female action star in film.
