At the panel titled “Activists Fighting Israel’s Propaganda Machine: Refuting Israel’s Lies for the Palestinian Cause” held at the Atlas Cinema, notable speakers came together. The panel included American activist Medea BenjaminCanadian doctor who survived the Nazis Gabor Mate‘s son, writer and activist Aaron Mate, Palestinian-Canadian nurse Ahmed Koutaand Israeli journalist participating online Gideon Levytook place.
Aaron Mate drew attention to the continuity of disinformation campaigns carried out by Israeli authorities, emphasizing how such manipulations shape public perception. Recalling the claim of “beheaded babies” that major international media outlets spread without questioning its validity, Mate criticized the uncritical adoption of such lies by Western media. “Propaganda must be exposed and the truth must prevail,” he said, underlining the need for greater cooperation between media and activities.
Gideon Levy, who participated in the panel online, highlighted the “deep-rooted denial and complicity” in Israeli society. Levy said that Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, was being used as a pretext to legitimize continued violence against the Palestinians. “Nothing can justify what Israel has done since October 7. The belief that Israel has the right to do whatever it wants, without moral or legal limits, is deeply disturbing,” he said, emphasizing that the Israeli public has largely ignored the horrors taking place in Gaza.
Palestinian-Canadian nurse Ahmed Kouta said that she witnessed various forms of suffering during always working at Shifa Hospital in Gaza. “Every household in Gaza has lost a loved one,” she said, describing the helplessness of medical personnel in Gaza as they deal with the wounded. “While working in the hospital, I saw the devastating effects of airstrikes. It is heartbreaking to witness this grief and loss firsthand.”
American activist Medea Benjamin, while assessing the general political landscape in the United States, criticized the unwavering support given to Israel by both major political parties. Benjamin noted that she was optimistic about the growing protest movements in the United States and their potential to create change. “Public opinion is changing in the United States, and we represent the majority. Despite the overwhelming support for Israel by both major political parties, the pressure from the protest movements to create change is increasing,” she said.
Following the panel, the documentary was shown to the participants, which contributed to a better understanding of the topics discussed in the panel.
