No Other Land, a poignant documentary focusing on Palestinians’ fight against home demolitions by the Israeli military, clinched the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature at the 97th Academy Awards held on March 2, 2025. The film triumphed against strong contenders such as Porcelain War, Sugarcane, Black Box Diaries, and Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat.
Filmed over four years, from 2019 to 2023, No Other Land chronicles the efforts of Basel Adra, the Palestinian co-director and activist who risks arrest to document the plight of his community in Masafer Yatta, located at the southern edge of the West Bank. The Israeli military is reportedly clearing this area to establish training grounds, prompting protests and heightened tensions. Adra’s narrative gains depth as he seeks support from Jewish-Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham, who appears alongside him as co-director.
During their acceptance of the prestigious award, Adra highlighted the grim reality faced by Palestinians. "About two months ago, I became a father, and my hope to my daughter is she will not have to live the same life I’m living now, always fearing settlers, violence, home demolitions and forcible displacements under Israeli occupation,” stated Adra, illustrating the personal stakes involved.
He urged global leaders to "take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people,” reinforcing the film’s urgent message. There was palpable sentiment among attendees as Adra’s words not only encapsulated his experience but also echoed the broader struggles of his community.
Abraham spoke passionately about the film's mission, emphasizing the collaboration between Palestinian and Israeli voices. “Together, our voices are stronger,” he asserted. Abraham also addressed the devastation wrought by the continuing violence, demanding justice for victims on both sides of the conflict. He remarked, “The atrocious destruction of Gaza and its people must end. Israeli hostages, brutally taken during the attack on October 7, 2023, must be freed.”
Significantly, Abraham challenged U.S. foreign policy, claiming it undermines peace efforts. “Can’t you see we’re intertwined? My people can be truly safe if Basel’s people are truly free and safe. There is another way. It’s not too late for life for the living. There is no other way,” he emphasized. This call for solidarity stirred conversations about international intervention and accountability related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Despite its victory at the Oscars, No Other Land has faced challenges securing distribution within the U.S., which the filmmakers attribute to the politically sensitive nature of their subject matter. To qualify for the Oscars, the film was screened for one week at the Lincoln Center, showcasing its potential impact and quality.
The documentary’s emotional core stems from Adra’s personal footage, providing firsthand accounts of the Israeli military’s actions, including bulldozed schools and cement-filled wells, denying Palestinians the right to rebuild. It captures community resilience, such as local residents coming together after the shooting of a protester, who was left paralyzed, and highlights the human cost of the conflict.
More than 500,000 Israeli settlers now reside in the West Bank, mingling with about three million Palestinians who live under military governance by Israel, with the Palestinian Authority managing urban centers. Major human rights organizations have deemed the situation to resemble apartheid, which the Israeli government vehemently denies, underscoring its historical claims to the land and opposing Palestinian statehood.
Following the ceremony, many observers noted how Adra and Abraham’s message stood out, especially during a politically charged Oscars, where other events briefly referenced international conflicts. Host Conan O’Brien largely refrained from discussing contemporary political matters, amplifying the significance of the filmmakers’ poignant statements. The film garnered accolades not only for its content but also for its audacity to raise important social issues on such a high-profile platform.
The victory of No Other Land at the Oscars serves as both recognition of the struggles of Palestinians and as encouragement to produce narratives emphasizing cooperation and solidarity across divides. Amidst increasing tensions and violence, the film brings attention to the plight of the Palestinian community, sparking dialogue about justice and reconciliation.
Adra and Abraham’s win this year marks not just personal success but also stresses the importance of amplifying marginalized voices through cinema. Their collaboration showcases the potential for shared narratives to bridge divides, with the hopes of one day achieving mutual recognition and respect for all people residing within Israel and Palestine.
The documentary remains a call to action—revealing the harsh realities endured and the shared aspirations for freedom and peace embodying the lives of those like Adra and their families.
For many, the film and its recent Oscar win continue to ripple beyond Hollywood, offering hope and sparking dialogue over necessary political changes and humanitarian concerns. With high-profile recognition now secured, advocates hope to draw greater attention to the lasting impacts of the conflict and the urgent need for resolution.