LOS ANGELES – Renowned American actress and humanitarian Angelina Jolie paid tribute to conflict-affected journalists and artists during a special dinner event at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, with a heartfelt mention of Palestinian photojournalist Fatima Hassouneh, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike.
According to international media reports, Jolie highlighted the courage of those who continue to document truth in the face of danger. She specifically mentioned 23-year-old Fatima Hassouneh, who was working on a documentary showcasing the daily struggles of life in Gaza.
Hassouneh’s documentary had been selected for screening at the Cannes Film Festival on April 15, 2025. However, just a day later, an Israeli airstrike targeted her apartment which resulted in her martyrdom along with nine members of her family.
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A report by the UK-based investigative organisation Forensic Architecture confirmed that the airstrike was a direct hit on her residential building.
In her speech, Jolie said, “The artists and journalists around the world are risking their lives to tell the truth — often without any protection — and some have paid the ultimate price,”.
She also acknowledged the sacrifices of journalists reporting from Sudan and Ukraine.
The Cannes Film Festival, known for celebrating global cinema, turned solemn during the event as Jolie’s remarks brought attention to the growing dangers faced by media professionals and storytellers in conflict zones.
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