Why Did Hamas Praise Hannah Einbinder’s Speech? Inside the 2025 Emmys Controversy
Hannah Einbinder, star of Hacks, made headlines at the Emmy Awards after declaring “Free Palestine” during her acceptance speech for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. Her bold remarks drew praise from Palestinian outlets, including Quds News Network, a platform accused of ties to Hamas.
But while the network celebrated her pro-Palestinian message, it heavily censored her appearance. Coverage of the speech blurred Einbinder’s torso, covering her exposed shoulders, cleavage, and even a pin she wore in solidarity with Palestine.
The post, originally published on X, was later deleted after sparking attention and criticism. The censorship highlighted the group’s strict stance on women’s modesty, even as it amplified Einbinder’s political words.
Einbinder’s Censorship by Quds News Network
The Quds News Network featured Einbinder’s remarks prominently on social media. However, their version of the video blurred out much of her upper body.
The move meant her solidarity pin was also obscured, undermining part of the statement she made on stage. Critics noted the irony of censoring a woman while celebrating her message.
The New York Post reported that Quds has long faced allegations of being affiliated with Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, despite its claim of independence.
Hamas and Restrictions on Women
Since taking over Gaza in 2007, Hamas has enforced restrictions on women’s rights despite global criticism. Human rights groups and the UN have repeatedly accused the group of limiting freedoms.
Although no official dress code exists, reports suggest Hamas enforces a “Code of Modesty” that pressures women to wear headscarves and long gowns in public.
The censorship of Einbinder’s shoulders and attire on Quds’ platform echoed this broader approach, where women’s appearances are tightly controlled.
Einbinder Explains Her Speech
During her speech, Einbinder was unapologetic. She shouted, “F**k ICE and free Palestine,” drawing both applause and backlash.
Later, she explained that as a Jewish person, she felt it was her duty to “distinguish Jews from the State of Israel.” She emphasized that her culture and religion were separate from what she described as an “ethno-nationalist project.”
Einbinder said the conflict resonated with her personally, as she had friends working with refugees in Gaza. Her activism, she added, came from a place of empathy and responsibility.
Reactions to Her Remarks
While celebrated by some, Einbinder’s comments were heavily criticized in Jewish and pro-Israel circles. Many argued that her words normalized anti-Israel sentiments at a sensitive time.
Israeli writer Hen Mazzig wrote in The Hollywood Reporter that vilifying Israel on such a stage only fuels hatred toward Jews worldwide. He said true bravery would have been calling for hostages’ release instead of political attacks.
Meanwhile, Palestinian peace advocates also took aim at Quds News Network. Ihab Hassan, a Palestinian Christian, called the outlet “a complete joke,” criticizing its censorship and extremist leanings.
A Divisive Moment at the Emmys
Einbinder’s speech has cemented itself as one of the most controversial moments of this year’s Emmys. It drew support from those sympathetic to Palestine and condemnation from critics who saw it as irresponsible.
At the same time, Quds’ decision to censor her appearance highlighted contradictions within the groups praising her. Even as they embraced her message, they erased parts of her identity on screen.
The clash of politics, religion, and cultural norms ensures that this Emmys moment will remain debated long after the awards ceremony ended.
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