Over 150 cultural figures have penned an open letter to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, urging him to take concrete action regarding the ongoing crisis in Gaza. The letter, titled “Let Gaza Not Die, Mr. Merz” as reported by “Der Spiegel”, outlines three specific demands aimed at alleviating the humanitarian situation.
The signatories request an immediate halt to all German arms exports to Israel, a suspension of the EU-Israel association agreement and a swift implementation of a ceasefire alongside the facilitation of unrestricted access for humanitarian aid.
The list of signatories includes prominent figures from the entertainment industry, such as television presenters Joko Winterscheidt, Klaas Heufer-Umlauf and Giovanni Zarrella, comedian Teddy Teclebrhan, musicians Shirin David and Ebow and rappers Ski Aggu and Zartmann. Actors and actresses Jessica Schwarz, Christiane Paul, Benno Fürmann, Anna Thalbach, Meret Becker and Jürgen Vogel are also among those who have lent their names to the appeal.
The letter acknowledges recent statements and critiques of the Israeli government made by Chancellor Merz, praising them but emphasizing that words alone are insufficient to address the crisis. The signatories express profound concern for the suffering endured by civilians, stating “Mothers. Fathers. Children. Children who are not part of this war – and yet bear its entire burden”. They are urging Mr. Merz to translate his words into action.
While condemning the “horrendous crimes” committed by Hamas, the letter argues that such atrocities cannot justify the collective punishment of millions of innocent people. The cultural figures are calling on Chancellor Merz to act decisively, free from political considerations, believing he possesses the influence to encourage a shift in course for Israel.