Fatma Hassona, the young Palestinian journalist and star of the Cannes documentary “Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk”, has tragically passed away at the age of 25. The news of her death has sent shockwaves through the film industry and the Palestinian community, as well as sparking outcry against the ongoing violence in the region.
Hassona, who was born and raised in Gaza, was a rising star in the world of documentary filmmaking. Her film “Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk” captured the struggles and resilience of the Palestinian people living under occupation. It premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2019 and received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and emotional impact.
But on Tuesday, May 18th, Hassona’s bright future was cut short when an Israeli missile struck her family’s home in Gaza. She was killed alongside her father and three of her siblings, while her mother and two other siblings were severely injured. The attack was part of the ongoing violence between Israel and Hamas, which has escalated in recent weeks and has claimed the lives of hundreds of Palestinians, including many innocent civilians.
The news of Hassona’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from her colleagues, friends, and fans. Director of “Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk”, Sahera Dirbas, described her as a “brilliant and fearless filmmaker” who was dedicated to telling the stories of her people. She also expressed her anger towards the violence that took her life, saying “Fatma’s death is a tragic reminder of the ongoing suffering and injustice faced by Palestinians every day.”
Hassona’s death has also shed light on the dangers faced by journalists and media workers in conflict zones, especially in Palestine. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, at least 15 Palestinian journalists have been injured and two have been killed since the start of the recent conflict. This is a disturbing trend that must be addressed and condemned.
Despite the tragic end to her life, Hassona’s legacy will live on through her powerful and impactful work. She was a beacon of hope and a voice for the voiceless, shedding light on the struggles and resilience of the Palestinian people. Her film will continue to inspire and educate audiences around the world, serving as a reminder of the ongoing conflict and the need for peace and justice in the region.
The Palestinian people have lost a talented and passionate young woman, and the film industry has lost a rising star. But beyond her achievements as a filmmaker, Hassona will be remembered for her kind heart, infectious smile, and unwavering determination to make a difference in the world. She was a role model for young Palestinian women and a symbol of hope for a better future.
As we mourn the loss of Fatma Hassona, let us also remember her message of peace and unity. In her film, she said, “We want to live in peace, we want to live in a world where our voices are heard.” Let us honor her memory by amplifying her voice and her message, and by working towards a world where young talents like Hassona can thrive and fulfill their dreams.
In the words of her colleague Sahera Dirbas, “Fatma’s soul will forever live on through her work and her legacy.” May she rest in peace and may her soul continue to inspire us all to work towards a world where tragedies like this can be prevented.
