Isaac Herzog

Dear film and culture enthusiasts,

The Jerusalem Film Festival Opening Event is always a day of celebration, a moment of appreciation for what has become a vibrant and living part of Jerusalem's cultural landscape. The festival offers artistic richness, Israeli pride, meaningful cross-cultural encounters, and, of course, enormous enjoyment and inspiration for film lovers—ourselves included.

There is no question that the shadow of war cast over our lives for the past twenty months curbs the full joyful spirit we would so much wish for. So many of our brothers and sisters have lost loved ones; others have been displaced from their homes; and we are surrounded from all angles by grief, physical and emotional wounds, and the relentless concern for our hostages. This reality naturally impedes upon the joyful atmosphere that has long marked this wonderful festival.

At the same time, in the context of so much pain and loss, I believe this festival becomes doubly important, as a testament to the spirit of creativity and connection that is still available to us. The universal language of cinema speaks to the most beautiful dimensions of being human, and it is one that can transcend so many divides. This year, more than ever, it is a critical reminder of the joy, and richness of culture and spirit that we share as human beings, and I am delighted that it will be enriching the cultural landscape of our beloved city of Jerusalem this season.

I convey my heartfelt thanks to the organizers, the filmmakers, and the wonderful audience for making this festival possible. I am confident that it will offer festivalgoers many forms of inspiration, beauty, and exceptional cinema.

I close with a prayer for the safe return of all our hostages—every last one—whether to healing, or to a final resting place in the land of Israel; for the recovery of the wounded, in body and spirit; for the safety and success of the IDF soldiers and security forces on the different fronts; for the return of displaced families and communities to their homes; and for comfort and solace for the families of the fallen and murdered, and for the entire people of Israel.

Yours Sincerely,

Isaac Herzog