Prominent UK and Irish writers have joined forces, with over 300 cultural figures signing a joint letter calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and unrestricted aid to those facing starvation. The letter was signed by notable authors like Ian McEwan, Jeanette Winterson, and Zadie Smith, as well as musician Brian Eno.
The document begins with a poem by Palestinian poet Hiba Abu Nada, who lost her life two years ago in an Israeli airstrike. It urges the government to end “the collective silence and inaction” that has followed tens of thousands of Palestinian deaths since October 2022.
The letter criticizes Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as “genocidal intentions.” It also labels Hamas’ atrocities as “crimes of war” and “crimes against humanity,” while calling for the release of hostages. The document rejects attacks on any group, including Palestinian, Israeli, and Jewish communities, and demands sanctions against Israel if a ceasefire is not achieved.
International human rights organizations have already deemed some of these actions as genocide or crimes against humanity, emphasizing the urgent need for action to end the violence in Gaza.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/05/29/nx-s1-5415653/gaza-ceasefire-letter-uk-ireland-writers