Gal Gadot, the Israeli actress and former Miss Universe 2004 contestant
who is currently playing Wonder Woman in the DC film series, is being skewered
by some for being a “Zionist” and a poor choice to play Diana of Themiscyra. The movie is being boycotted in Jordan and
some other nations.
The evidence for her alleged “Zionism” is this post that was
made, with a picture of her and her daughter praying, in 2014 during the
Hamas/Israel conflict in Gaza:
“I am sending my
love and prayers to my fellow Israeli citizens,” she wrote. “Especially to all
the boys and girls who are risking their lives protecting my country against
the horrific acts conducted by Hamas, who are hiding like cowards behind women
and children...We shall overcome!!! Shabbat Shalom! #weareright #freegazafromhamas
#stopterror #coexistance #loveidf”
I do not know, as I have never seen her self-identify as a
Zionist," if she actually is Zionist or not (and the whole term
"Zionist" is very politically charged anyway.) As far as I can see,
she was being very careful in singling out Hamas, a known terror organization,
and its self-admitted use of human shields, rather than making any strident
point about Israel destroying Palestinians. Agree or disagree, she was simply
speaking as a patriotic Israeli.
It is perfectly possible to be supportive of Palestinian people
AND to say that the citizens of Israel deserve to live in peace and freedom
from sectarian violence. And it is also possible to look at the actions of both
sides with a critical eye. Unfortunately, partisan politics from either side
lead to myopia.
People may boycott Wonder Woman due to its star. That's their
choice. I saw the movie and really enjoyed it, and I thought her portrayal of
Wonder Woman was fantastic. I refuse to let partisan politics get in the way of
what entertainment I choose to watch, but that's just me.
