Over 150 cultural figures in Germany have jointly penned an open letter to Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, urging him to take decisive action regarding the ongoing crisis in Gaza. The letter, titled “Don’t Let Gaza Die, Mr. Merz” as reported by “Der Spiegel”, expresses deep concern and calls for specific measures to alleviate the suffering of civilians.
The letter outlines three primary demands: a complete cessation of German arms exports to Israel, the suspension of the Association Agreement between the European Union and Israel and an immediate call for a ceasefire coupled with unrestricted access for humanitarian aid.
Among the signatories are prominent media personalities Joko Winterscheidt, Klaas Heufer-Umlauf and Giovanni Zarrella, comedian Teddy Teclebrhan, musicians Shirin David and Ebow and artists Ski Aggu and Zartmann. Actors and actresses Jessica Schwarz, Christiane Paul, Benno Fürmann, Anna Thalbach, Meret Becker and Jürgen Vogel also added their names.
The letter acknowledges Chancellor Merz’s recent public statements and criticisms of the Israeli government, but emphasizes the urgent need for more than just words. The signatories describe the immense suffering of civilians, highlighting the plight of mothers, fathers and children caught in the conflict. They urge the Chancellor to translate his concerns into tangible action.
While condemning the “horrific crimes” committed by Hamas, the letter asserts that such actions do not justify the collective punishment of millions of innocent civilians. The cultural figures stress the expectation of action from Chancellor Merz, independent of political considerations. They express the belief that he is uniquely positioned to influence a change in course.
