The presentation of the Best International Feature Film (which went to Norway’s Sentimental Value) became the most politically charged segment of the 2026 Oscars. While the ceremony took place under tight security due to ongoing US-Iran tensions, Javier Bardem utilized the platform to deliver a message that has since divided the internet.
Bardem’s Bold Stance
Javier Bardem, a long-time advocate for Palestinian rights, did not stick to the script.
- The “Iraq” Connection: Bardem revealed on the red carpet that he was wearing the same “No to War” pin he wore in 2003 to protest the Iraq War, stating that history was repeating itself with another “illegal war.”
- Direct Call to Action: His slogan was met with one of the longest rounds of applause of the night, reflecting a significant shift in Hollywood’s internal discourse regarding the conflict.
The Critique of Priyanka Chopra
Priyanka Chopra Jonas found herself in the crosshairs of a “silence vs. solidarity” debate:
- UNICEF Role: Many pointed out that as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2016, she has a mandate to protect children. Critics argue her silence beside Bardem was a “position of privilege” and a failure to advocate for children in conflict zones.
- “Selective Activism”: Social media users contrasted her vocal support for Iranian women’s protests with her perceived silence on Gaza and her past support for the Indian military during the 2019 tensions with Pakistan.
- Dhruv Rathee’s Commentary: Popular YouTuber Dhruv Rathee criticized her in a viral video, stating, “Neutrality is a position of privilege… if bombs aren’t falling on your home, you can afford to stay quiet.”
Javier Bardem says “no to war and free Palestine” at the #Oscars, earning a huge round of applause from everyone in the room.
(via ABC/AMPAS) pic.twitter.com/7p3whJzhbm
— Variety (@Variety) March 16, 2026
The “Daal Gadot” Meme
The term “Daal Gadot” became a top trend in Pakistan and India following the event.
- The Origin: It is a satirical blend of “Daal” (a staple South Asian dish) and Gal Gadot. It implies that Priyanka is a “South Asian version” of the Wonder Woman star, who is often criticized for her staunch support of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).
- Viral Humor: Memes primarily targeted her “uncomfortable” facial expression during Bardem’s speech, with some suggesting she looked “caught off guard” by the Spanish actor’s deviation from the teleprompter.
round of applause from everyone except for the zionist war monger stood next to him
— Hihi Gadid • 🇵🇸 (@bigbrownenergy) March 16, 2026
| Event | Moment | Impact |
| Javier Bardem | “Free Palestine” Slogan | Viral clips; sparked major debate on celebrity activism. |
| Joachim Trier | “Adults are responsible for children” | Acceptance speech for Sentimental Value calling for political accountability. |
| Conan O’Brien | “Last human host” joke | Commentary on the looming threat of AI in Hollywood. |
| Security | FBI/LAPD High Alert | Due to potential Iranian threats against California venues. |
What’s Next for Priyanka?
Why is @priyankachopra silent? Isn’t she a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador who works on children’s rights and girls’ education? Yet she hasn’t said anything about the US bombing on a school in Iran that killed 200+ children.
— Irfan Ahmad (@Irfuu_) March 16, 2026
The actress has not yet officially responded to the “Daal Gadot” trend. Instead, she shared a photo of her daughter, Malti Marie, following the ceremony. However, PR experts suggest this moment might increase pressure on her to issue a formal statement regarding her humanitarian stance as the Middle East conflict continues to escalate.
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