Some of Hollywood's most vocal critics of Israel are attending the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with reports indicating they are receiving substantial payments for their participation. Notable attendees include Riz Ahmed, Juliette Binoche, Michael Caine, Kirsten Dunst, and Idris Elba, all of whom have publicly condemned Israel's actions but have remained silent on Saudi Arabia's human rights record. The festival, backed by the Saudi Ministry of Culture, has a history of compensating celebrity guests, with Spike Lee reportedly earning up to $3 million last year to preside over the jury.

Many of these celebrities have signed pledges to boycott Israel and have spoken at pro-Palestinian events, yet their involvement in the Saudi festival has drawn criticism due to the kingdom's own record of repressing free speech and civil rights. Despite recent reforms, Saudi Arabia continues to enforce harsh penalties for dissent, and critics note the contrast between the stars' activism against Israel and their willingness to accept lucrative offers from the Saudi government. The festival's organizers have confirmed that some guests are paid for their participation, though specific amounts and recipients remain undisclosed.