The Venice Film Festival erupted into a vibrant protest this Saturday, marking one of the largest demonstrations ever seen at a major film event, focused sharply on Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza.

Thousands of passionate attendees, from festival-goers to locals, flooded the streets, rallying against what they termed a genocide. Surrounded by a sea of Palestinian flags, chants of “Free Free Palestine” filled the air, while the atmosphere maintained a festive edge with stilt-walkers bearing “Peace” banners, music blasting, and flares lighting up the sky.

This powerful protest, supported by a variety of groups and associations, aimed not only to raise awareness but to ensure that the festival took a firm public stance against the conflict in Gaza.

"The Venice Film Festival cannot remain an event disconnected from reality," the organizers declared. They called for tangible support for Palestinian people amidst the atrocities happening in Gaza, stating, "It's time to stop the massacre, stop the genocide, and halt arms sales that contribute to this barbarity."

As the protest unfolded, police closed main roads on the Lido, amplifying the already undeniable visibility and noise of the march that reverberated through the festival grounds.

The statement from organizers highlighted the devastating conditions back in Gaza: hospitals and schools facing bombardment, civilians deprived of essential supplies, and an ongoing crisis exacerbated by military actions in the West Bank.

With international calls for accountability intensifying and casualties among civilians rising, this year's Venice Film Festival transformed from a typically glam event into a dynamic platform for political expression.

Earlier in the week, activists had already made their presence known, brandishing banners proclaiming “Free Palestine. Stop the Genocide” in front of the festival's headquarters.

In anticipation of the festival, hundreds of filmmakers and artists urged organizers to take a definitive stand against the ongoing violence revealed in their letter, even calling for the disinvitation of celebrities who openly support Israel, resulting in Gal Gadot's absence from the event.

Responding to these pressures, the Biennale emphasized that the festival has always promoted open discussions on pressing global issues, reflecting through the diverse works showcased.

Festival chief Alberto Barbera faced questions about the festival's political stance, reaffirming the commitment to inclusivity while expressing profound sorrow over the events in Gaza.

Meanwhile, jury president Alexander Payne remained diplomatically neutral, emphasizing his role in celebrating cinema over engaging in political discourse, suggesting an alignment with the sentiments of many.