Following the petition by the “Film Workers for Palestine Organization,” signed by nearly 4,000 stars and film industry professionals, Paramount Pictures has released a statement distancing itself from the declaration. The studio’s announcement states that film creation is meant to connect people, not isolate creators based on nationality, a position that could influence additional stars from joining the initiative. In a press release, the company stated: “We disagree with recent moves to boycott Israeli filmmakers. Silencing individual creators because of their national affiliation does not encourage better understanding or advance the achievement of peace. We need more encounters and communication – not less.”