Gal Gadot urges Israelis to vote in Knesset elections

One day before Israel's Knesset elections, actress Gal Gadot arrived in the country and attended a ceremony Monday night at Bar-Ilan University, where she received an honorary doctorate. In her speech at the event, the Hollywood star addressed Tuesday's vote and called on Israeli citizens to cast their ballots and take responsibility for the country's future.

Speaking in English, Gadot described the current election as potentially the most significant the country has seen in many years. "Tomorrow, each and every one of us has the chance to make a difference," the star told the audience. Though she did not disclose her own choice, many observers believe she was hinting at a change in government when she urged Israelis to exercise their right to vote according to their beliefs and with a sense of responsibility toward all the country's residents.

Gadot flew to Israel specifically to vote, as do many Israelis living abroad, since most citizens outside the country cannot vote remotely.

"Israel will always be my home"

In her remarks, Gadot also addressed the difficult three years Israel has endured since the events of October 7, the wave of antisemitism that has swept the world, and the complexity of being an Israeli and a Jew working on the international stage. She emphasized that regardless of physical distance, and despite a career that requires her to spend extended periods abroad, Israel will always remain her home.

The star shared a personal and moving moment from her life as a mother. She recounted a conversation with one of her daughters, who asked what to do if a siren sounds while she is alone on the street. Gadot explained to her daughter that in such a situation, she should find another person, even a complete stranger, and reach a protected space with them. The emotional personal story illustrated the complex security reality in which Israeli children grow up.

International career and Israeli identity

Gadot, who lives in Los Angeles with her husband Yaron Varsano and their four daughters, continues to maintain a close connection with Israel despite her successful Hollywood career. The star enjoys international admiration, particularly following her famous role as Wonder Woman, but she continues to emphasize her Israeli and Jewish identity at every opportunity.

The honorary doctorate from Bar-Ilan University joins a series of recognitions and honors Gadot has received in recent years. The university ceremony, held before a large audience, provided the star an opportunity to return to her roots and express her support for the State of Israel during a challenging period.

The Knesset elections are taking place Tuesday, with millions of Israelis expected to reach the polls. Gadot's speech joins many voices calling on citizens to exercise their right to vote and take an active part in shaping the country's future.