paroolFeb 20, 2026, 08:45

Berlinale proves political rows smolder longer at film festivals without Hollywood stars

The 76th Berlinale film festival faced a notable absence of Hollywood stars, which caused media attention to shift toward a persistent political controversy regarding the Gaza conflict. Tensions were heightened by jury president Wim Wenders’ remarks suggesting that film should remain separate from politics, leading to criticism over the festival's perceived silence compared to its past activism. Without the distraction of red-carpet glamour, the event became dominated by debates over the political responsibility of filmmakers and the festival's role in global issues.

Politics Culture World

Read original ↗

Cabinet wanted to ease restrictions too quickly during pandemic, says Bruls

Nijmegen Mayor Hubert Bruls testified before the parliamentary inquiry committee that the Dutch cabinet pushed to relax COVID-19 restrictions too quickly in 2020. During his hearing, he reflected on the government's approach and decision-making during the pandemic response.

Israel expects fighting with Iran to last several days

The Israel Defense Forces expect the current hostilities with Iran to continue for several days. The military also stated it is prepared for a full-scale resumption of war as the two nations continue to exchange attacks.

4,000 Beverwijk primary school children receive anniversary book on 750 years of market rights

Approximately 4,000 primary school children in Beverwijk are receiving a special anniversary book titled 'Zevenmaal Beverwijk' to commemorate the city's 750 years of market rights. Written by Truus Zonneveld and illustrated by Tjarko van der Pol, the book is being distributed to students in grades 3 through 8.

Hülya Kat from IJmuiden becomes alderman in Tilburg

Hülya Kat, a 42-year-old politician born in IJmuiden, has been appointed as an alderman in the city of Tilburg. This appointment marks a new direction in Kat's political career.

Bruls: Pace of COVID measures 'unprecedentedly high' in early stages

Hubert Bruls, former chairman of the Safety Council, testified to a parliamentary inquiry committee that the pace of developing COVID-19 measures was "unprecedentedly high" at the start of the pandemic. He described the intense pressure faced by officials during the initial phase of the national crisis response.