Israeli film awards face funding threat after win for “The Sea”

The Israeli Film Academy’s Ophir Awards are under government scrutiny after the Arabic-language drama «The Sea» won Best Film and was chosen to represent Israel at the Oscars. Directed by Shai Carmeli Pollak and produced by Baher Agbariya, the film tells the story of a Palestinian boy from the West Bank who risks everything to reach the beach in Tel Aviv. The Sea also won awards for its screenplay, acting and original score, according to Variety.

Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar condemned the decision, calling the film «defamatory» toward Israeli soldiers and announcing plans to cut government funding for the Ophir Awards starting in 2026. «There is no greater spit in the face of Israeli citizens,» Zohar said in a statement.

Political tension was high at this year’s ceremony. Some winners wore anti-war messages and called for an end to the conflict in Gaza. Academy chairman Asaf Amir supported the jury’s decision, saying it showed cooperation between Israeli and Palestinian filmmakers.

The award was given as international pressure increased. Nearly 4,000 industry professionals, including some Hollywood stars, recently signed a petition to boycott Israeli cultural institutions accused of being involved in the Gaza war. The Israel Film Fund, which helped support The Sea, has also faced government criticism for funding other politically sensitive films.

Accepting his award for best actor, 13-year-old Mohammad Gzawi said, «I wish for all the children of the world to have the same opportunity — to live and dream without wars.»