MADRID – Oscar-winning actress Angelina Jolie has voiced alarm over the current state of the United States, saying that while she loves her country, she no longer recognizes it amid growing political and social divisions.
Speaking during a panel at the San Sebastián Film Festival in Spain, Jolie was asked what frightens her the most as both an actress and an American.
Calling it a “very difficult question,” the Hollywood star replied, “I love my country, but at the moment I don’t recognize it. My worldview is equal, united, and international.”
Jolie cautioned that any force which divides people or limits freedom of expression is “extremely dangerous and deeply troubling,” remarks that come at a time when debates over free speech and national identity are intensifying across the United States.
“I love my country, but at this time, I don’t recognize my country.”
— Angelina Joliepic.twitter.com/Xz6lBqrbee— ❂ Yübbîę Umoh ❂ (@Yubbie007) September 22, 2025
Angelina had earlier 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.
Jolie had 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.
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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