Remembering Mohammad Bakri: A Palestinian Voice in Film

Mohammad Bakri, a prominent Palestinian actor and director, passed away on December 24, 2025, in Nahariya, Israel, at the age of 72. His death was announced by his sons, Saleh and Adam Bakri, both of whom are also actors. Bakri's career was marked by his efforts to portray the complexities of Palestinian identity and the harsh realities faced by his community, particularly through his controversial documentary "Jenin, Jenin."

The Plain Dealer

Bakri gained international recognition for his role in the television series "Homeland," where he portrayed Afghanistan's vice president, Abdul Qadir G’ulom. However, it was his 2002 documentary "Jenin, Jenin" that defined much of his career. The film depicted the aftermath of a battle between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants in the Jenin refugee camp, relying on testimonies from local residents. The documentary faced significant backlash, leading to legal battles and a ban on its screening in Israel, which Bakri described as a crushing blow to his career.

New York Times

Gideon Levy, an Israeli journalist, reflected on Bakri's significance, noting that he was both a cultural icon and a victim of the Israeli system. Levy emphasized that Bakri's work was an authentic expression of Palestinian pain, which the Israeli authorities were unwilling to acknowledge. Rami Khouri, a Palestinian American journalist, echoed this sentiment, stating that Bakri represented the persistence of Palestinian culture against efforts to suppress it.

Democracy Now

Bakri's family confirmed his passing, expressing profound sorrow over the loss of their father. His cousin, Rafic Bakri, remarked on the enduring legacy of Mohammad Bakri among Palestinians and the global community. The broader artistic community mourned his death, recognizing his contributions to cinema and the representation of Palestinian narratives.

The Plain Dealer

Bakri's work, particularly "Jenin, Jenin," faced censorship and legal challenges, reflecting a broader trend of suppressing Palestinian voices in art and media. Critics argue that the Israeli legal system has historically marginalized Palestinian narratives, with Bakri's experiences serving as a poignant example of this ongoing struggle. Khouri highlighted the systemic efforts to erase Palestinian culture, noting that Bakri's death is part of a longer tradition of colonial attempts to silence dissent.

Democracy Now

• “MOHAMMAD BAKRI: They wanted to tell their stories, because they were still in shock.” — Mohammad Bakri

Democracy Now

• “RAMI KHOURI: You know, Mohammad Bakri represents Palestinian culture, creativity, life and persistence.” — Rami Khouri

Democracy Now

As the film industry remembers Bakri, his last project, "All That’s Left of You," which features his sons and is shortlisted for the 2026 Academy Awards, serves as a testament to his enduring influence. Discussions surrounding his legacy and the representation of Palestinian narratives in cinema are expected to continue, highlighting the importance of artistic expression in the face of adversity.

The Plain Dealer