5th KIIFF / two new non-competitive categories

Iranian Filmmaker & Isareli jewish Filmmaker

Greetings to all lovers of culture and art,

Since its inception, the Kurdistan International Independent Film Festival has stood firmly upon two enduring pillars: cultural exchange and artistic authenticity. Throughout the years, we have strived to build bridges across borders—connecting hearts, minds, and voices through the power of cinema.

Today, in one of the darkest chapters of our times, our hearts beat in solidarity with the people of Iran, who remain oppressed under a brutal and authoritarian regime. At the same time, we extend our unwavering compassion and support to the people of Israel and Jewish communities across the globe, who are facing immense challenges with resilience and strength.

In these difficult days, we believe our responsibility goes beyond the organization of a film festival—it is a cultural mission, a call to stand for freedom, dignity, and light. Since the beginning, our festival has been a welcoming home for artists from every nation—from Iran to Israel—and today, in response to the current humanitarian and social realities, we are proud to announce the addition of two new non-competitive categories.

These categories are open to all genres and will serve as a platform to honor films that carry the spirit of hope, resistance, and humanity.

May light overcome darkness.

Best wishes,

Raman Irman

Festival President