In recent times, some of the world’s largest online entertainment platforms have been gripped by an unexpected wave of fear. Not fear evoked by a horror movie or thriller, but fear stirred by their own actions.

The Evolution of Fear in the Entertainment Industry

Traditionally, fear was associated with children afraid of shadows on a lonely street. Today, it’s different. Grown adults, leaders of major corporations, are now experiencing their own form of fear—fear of alienating certain powerful groups that hold influence over them.

Netflix’s Removal of Palestinian Films

Netflix, one of the world’s leading OTT platforms, is under scrutiny for quietly removing around 32 Palestinian films. These were not just entertainment but represented narratives of trauma, resistance, family, and life under occupation. Films like Omar, Children of Shatila, and Farha have touched viewers globally and presented a critical perspective on the occupation’s impact. Netflix’s explanation for the removal was simply that licensing agreements had expired. However, this coincidence of simultaneous expirations is met with skepticism, as it coincides with pressures from the Israel lobby. In 2021, Netflix refused to cave in, but it now appears that they may have aligned with the more influential forces of Western media that have historically marginalized Palestinian voices.

Big Brother UK and the Watermelon Symbol

In another unsettling incident, the popular reality show Big Brother in the UK made headlines for editing out an image of a watermelon after receiving complaints. For those unfamiliar, the watermelon has become a subtle symbol of Palestinian identity and solidarity. This incident underscores a growing trend: even the smallest expressions of Palestinian support are scrutinized, censored, or eliminated by media giants to appease certain groups.

A World Engulfed in Fear of the Truth

Ironically, images of watermelons and films portraying genuine stories are now causing an oppressive regime discomfort. Such reactions reveal a deep-seated fear that truth, when exposed, might jeopardize the power held by those who have shaped the narrative for years. From Hollywood to universities, from media outlets to politicians, there’s an increasing hesitance to stand up for the oppressed.

The Resilience of the Palestinian People

Through all of this, the courage of ordinary Palestinians shines brightly. Stories of young girls carrying injured siblings to safety serve as a reminder that true strength and resilience are found in those enduring the daily struggle, not in those who try to silence them.