Demand to Defund Theater Honoring 'Jenin Jenin' Director

An Israeli organization, "B'Tsalmo," has demanded that the government freeze funding for the Sarad Theater in Haifa following a tribute event held for filmmaker Mohammed Bakri. Bakri directed the controversial film "Jenin Jenin," which was banned in Israel by a court order after a lawsuit for defamation by a reservist soldier featured in the movie. The Supreme Court upheld the ruling.

"B'Tsalmo" CEO, Si Glyk, wrote to Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar, arguing that a state-funded institution should not host an event honoring Bakri, whom they described as a supporter of terrorism. Glyk urged Zohar to freeze the theater's funding, review its compliance with funding conditions, and assess its future eligibility for public money.

Glyk drew a parallel to Zohar's actions against creators of the film "Nezah," stating it's inconsistent to take steps against those who allegedly harmed Israel while continuing to fund an institution that honors Bakri. "The reality where a theater funded by the Ministry of Culture hosts events for terrorists alongside terrorists is delusional and incomprehensible," Glyk stated, demanding an immediate halt to all funding and cooperation with the theater.

In response, the Culture Ministry stated that Minister Zohar is actively working against those in the cultural sphere who seek to harm Israel's good name and IDF soldiers. However, the ministry clarified that the authority to revoke funding for institutions like the Sarad Theater, which are supported through broad criteria, rests solely with the Minister of Finance, based on clear criteria indicating active incitement against the state of Israel. The ministry also noted that legislative updates to the Nakba Law are expected, which will allow for sanctions and budget withdrawals.