No Other Land, a documentary chronicling efforts to prevent community demolitions in the West Bank, won the Oscar for Best Documentary on Sunday, marking Palestine‘s first Academy Award.
The film, created through a collaboration between Israeli and Palestinian filmmakers, follows activist Basel Adra as he documents the destruction of his hometown, which has been designated for military training.
His documentation gained momentum when he partnered with Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham, who helped amplify the story.
No Other Land makes history with first Oscar win for Palestine
“We made this film, Palestinians and Israelis, because together our voices are stronger,” Abraham said during his acceptance speech.
The documentary triumphed over competitors including Porcelain War, Sugarcane, Black Box Diaries, and Soundtrack to a Coup d’État. Following a successful festival run, it secured distribution in 24 countries.
Filmed between 2019 and 2023, ‘No Other Land’ captures the struggles of residents in Masafer Yatta, a region experiencing frequent demolitions. The film uses Adra’s personal footage, which documents key moments of resistance and community rebuilding efforts.
In the documentary, Abraham becomes involved with the community while acknowledging the disparities in their experiences. Adra faces restrictions on his movement, while Abraham enjoys greater freedom as an Israeli citizen.
“When I look at Basel, I see my brother, but we are unequal,” Abraham said, adding “we need a future built on equality and national rights for both peoples.”
“About two months ago, I became a father. My hope for my daughter is that she will not have to live the same life I’m living now—always fearing displacement and violence,” Adra said.
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