In a statement today, the embassy accused the festival organizers of “succumbing to the intimidation of anti-Israel groups and small political factions.”

The Animasyros administration publicly announced the termination of its collaboration with the Israeli embassy yesterday with the following statement: “After careful consideration and in response to extensive reactions from organizations and individuals, especially on the island of Syros, ANIMASYROS 2024 has decided to discontinue its collaboration with the Embassy of Israel in Greece to ensure the smooth organization of this year’s festival. As we believe that the political choices of states should not hinder artistic expression, ANIMASYROS will continue this year to welcome creators from around the world.”

According to reports, the reactions came collectively through a joint statement signed by various organizations, associations, and unions in Syros, including the Union of Private Employees of the Cyclades, the A’ ELME Cyclades (Union of Secondary Education Teachers), the OTE Employees’ Union (Cyclades branch), the Association of Engineers of Public Works Graduates of Higher Education (EMDYDAS – Cyclades section), the Union of Employees of the Decentralized Administration of the Aegean, the Union of Public Employees of the South Aegean Region – Cyclades, the Student Association of the Department of Product and Systems Design Engineering, and various representatives from leftist municipal factions.

Full Statement from the Israeli Embassy

“Animasyros has been a long-term partner of the Israeli Embassy, with the belief that art and culture should be a meeting place that promotes dialogue, inclusion, and pluralism.

Therefore, it is sad and deeply disappointing that the festival has abandoned these values, cowardly succumbing to the intimidation of anti-Israel groups and small political factions by ending its collaboration with the Embassy. We had higher expectations.

Partners, and indeed all who value free cultural exchanges, should condemn this decision and raise their voices.”