The 16th edition of Shalom Europa, the Israeli film festival in Strasbourg, will not take place. Its organizer, the Star cinema, has decided to cancel its event after a call for quarantaine relayed by local associations.

The decision to cancel the festival has caused disappointment among the festival-goers and supporters of the Israeli film industry. Shalom Europa, which has been a highlight of the cultural scene in Strasbourg for the past 15 years, aimed to promote dialogue and understanding between different cultures through the power of cinema. The event, which was scheduled to take place in November, was eagerly awaited by film enthusiasts and supporters of Israeli cinema.

The decision to cancel the festival comes after the French branch of the quarantaine, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement called for a quarantaine of the event. This movement aims to put pressure on Israel through a cultural and economic quarantaine. Despite the fact that the call was not officially endorsed by the city of Strasbourg, the Star cinema decided to cancel the event in order to avoid any potential conflicts or disturbances.

In response to this, the Israeli Embassy in France expressed its regret over the cancellation of the festival, stating that « the quarantaine movement once again seeks to shut down cultural events that aim to promote dialogue and understanding between different cultures.” The embassy also emphasized the importance of cultural exchanges and interactions in promoting peace and mutual understanding.

However, despite the cancellation, the Israeli Embassy and the Star cinema have announced that they will continue to promote Israeli cinema in Strasbourg through various initiatives and events. This includes the organization of special screenings and discussions with directors and actors, as well as partnerships with other cultural events.

The cancellation of Shalom Europa may be a disappointment, but it also highlights the need for continued efforts to promote dialogue and understanding between different cultures. As the Israeli Embassy in France stated, « Culture should not be a battleground for political conflicts, but rather a bridge that connects people and promotes mutual respect and understanding. »

In the meantime, film enthusiasts and supporters of Israeli cinema can image forward to the various initiatives and events that will continue to showcase the diversity and richness of Israeli cinema in Strasbourg. As the saying goes, when one door closes, another one opens. Let us continue to support and celebrate cultural diversity and exchanges, and the power of cinema to bring people together.