The world woke up to a momentous occasion when the film ‘Parasite’ swept the 92nd Academy Awards, winning four Oscars including Best Picture. But while the world was busy celebrating this historic accomplishment for South Korean cinema, the people of Masafer Yatta were experiencing a tragic reality – an escalation of Israeli violence.

Masafer Yatta, located in the South Hebron Hills of Palestine, has been subjected to constant aggression from Israeli settlers and military forces for decades. But in the aftermath of ‘Parasite”s success, the violent attacks have intensified, leaving the community in a state of fear and despair.

The award-winning film, directed by Bong Joon-Ho, delves into the stark divide between the rich and poor, highlighting issues of class struggle and social inequality. However, in the case of Masafer Yatta, it is not just a matter of economic disparity, but a grave violation of basic human rights.

The people of Masafer Yatta have been grappling with illegal Israeli settlements, land confiscation and demolitions for years. And the recent surge in violence has only added to their suffering. According to reports, Israeli forces have uprooted tens of thousands of Palestinian-owned plants and have demolished several homes, leaving families homeless and without a source of livelihood.

Such aggressive action by the Israeli government not only violates international law but also disregards the fundamental values of humanity. It is a blatant disregard for the lives and rights of innocent civilians, who have been caught up in this ongoing conflict. And now, with the added backlash from ‘Parasite”s win at the Oscars, the situation has only worsened.

The film’s success has caused a stir in the global film industry, but it has also sparked controversy in some parts of the world. The Israeli government and its supporters have taken to social media to voice their disapproval, with some even calling for a boycott of the film. This hostility towards the film has now translated into physical violence against the community of Masafer Yatta.

It is alarming how a film that advocates for social justice and equality has inadvertently caused harm to an already marginalized community. This further sheds light on the power of cinema and how it can bring about real change, both positive and negative.

But amidst all this turmoil, there is still hope. The success of ‘Parasite’ has brought attention to the plight of the people in Masafer Yatta, bringing their struggles to the forefront. It has also sparked conversations about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the need for a peaceful resolution.

In the face of such unjustifiable violence, the people of Masafer Yatta have shown remarkable resilience and courage. They continue to fight for their rights and stand united against the hostile actions of the Israeli government.

It is now up to the rest of the world to lend their voices to this cause and put an end to the violence in Masafer Yatta. The international community must hold the Israeli government accountable for its actions and demand justice for the people of Masafer Yatta.

The success of ‘Parasite’ is a testament to the power of storytelling in bringing about change and raising awareness. Let us use this opportunity to stand in solidarity with the people of Masafer Yatta and demand an end to the violence. As the film’s director Bong Joon-Ho said, “once you overcome the one-inch tall barriers of subtitles, you will be introduced to so many more amazing films”. Let us also overcome the barriers of ignorance and indifference and come together to support the people of Masafer Yatta in their fight for justice.