Netanyahu’s Brother Faces Protest at Belgrade International Book Fair

Why it matters:

The protest reflects growing international backlash against Israel’s war on Gaza and the broader role of Western institutions in legitimizing Israeli narratives. Cultural events featuring Israeli figures are increasingly becoming flashpoints for political dissent.

The big picture:

Iddo Netanyahu was promoting his book Itmar K. after a previous launch in Banja Luka, the capital of Republika Srpska in Bosnia. During the Belgrade event, a participant confronted him, demanding a response about his brother’s role in  “genocide in Gaza.” The moderator attempted to silence the question, but tensions escalated.

Key points:

• Protesters chanted “Death to Zionism” and “Death to NATO”.

• Palestinian flags and symbols of solidarity were prominently displayed.

• The event was interrupted and eventually descended into scuffles with security.

• Many attendees left the venue amid the disruption.

What to watch:

As criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza intensifies, public appearances by Israeli officials and affiliates may continue to face organized resistance —particularly in Europe, where civil society groups are increasingly vocal about media and cultural complicity in war crimes.

Go deeper:

Serbia announces suspension of arms exports to Israeli regime amid Gaza genocide