TEHRAN- In a display of national unity, Iranian House of Cinema along with various cinematic professional associations issued a joint statement on Friday, reaffirming their unwavering commitment to the defense of the motherland.

The statement, released following U.S.-Israeli aggression against the country, emphasizes that artists have historically been the voice of the people and that, in these critical times, this voice must resonate more clearly than ever before, Mehr reported. 

"Homeland is not just a word; it is a feeling rooted in the hearts of all Iranian people," the statement begins. "The great family of Iranian cinema, from its most celebrated faces to those behind the scenes, shares an unbreakable bond with this soil and the name 'Iran'."

The statement addresses the current geopolitical situation, pointing to the stark reality behind the claims of foreign intervention. "These days, amidst a war that was launched under the guise of 'helping the people' but quickly revealed its true face—where some insolently speak of the 'death of Iran'—one can no longer remain silent."

The guilds stressed the importance of national solidarity, noting that the Iranian people need to feel they are not alone. The statement calls for a clear distinction between internal criticisms and the existential defense of the nation.

"It does not matter what we think, what criticisms we hold, or what paths we have chosen; when it comes to Iran, we must stand together," it declared. "Today is the time to draw the lines—the line between the love for the homeland and that which seeks to cross it."

The comprehensive list of signatories includes nearly thirty professional bodies, representing every facet of the industry, including the High Council of Cinema Producers, the Iranian Film Directors Guild, the Screenwriters Guild, and the Actors Guild, as well as associations for cinematographers, editors, documentary filmmakers, and technical crews.

SAB/