Palestinian director expresses hope for Palestine's freedom

​​​​​​​By Omer Faruk Yildiz

ISTANBUL (AA) – Palestinian director Ala' Yousef Hasan expressed optimism about his country’s future.

“We still have hope that we will have the chance to have our freedom,” he said.

At the 6th International Friendship Short Film Festival, Hasan discussed his short film project. “From Ground Zero,” which aims to portray the humanitarian tragedy and life in the Gaza Strip amid Israeli attacks.

He emphasized to Anadolu the importance of sharing stories through film and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to present his work to a Turkish audience. Hasan noted the joy of showcasing films about Palestine globally and receiving positive feedback.

- Visual memory of events in Gaza

He explained that his project features 22 short films created by Gazan directors since the onset of the war. He said renowned director Rashid Masharawi, who was born in Gaza, financed the project that enabled young filmmakers in the region to tell untold stories and share their experiences first-hand.

Hasan underscored the significance of the films in countering international media distortions and misconceptions about Gaza, calling them a vital visual record of the situation. He noted that a year has passed since the Israeli attacks began Oct. 7, 2023, and stressed that Palestinian suffering is a long-standing narrative.

"I think this is very important to show untold stories that differ from news to the audience,” he said. “This project can ensure that what's happening in Gaza remains in people's memories.”

- ‘From Ground Zero’

The ‘From Ground Zero’ project compiles short films that narrate the events and human experiences in the region since the beginning of the Israeli attacks. It includes documentaries, action films, dramas and animated films by Palestinian directors such as Aws Al-Banna, Ahmed Al-Danf, Basil Al-Maqousi, and Mustafa Al-Nabih.