Hundreds of German public figures urge to halt arms exports to Israel

More than 160 German artists and media figures joined an increasing call to stop the exports of German weapons to Israel, bringing the number of signatories to 367, according to the Avaz campaign group.

The open letter, addressed to Chancellor Friedrich Merz, criticizes Israel’s actions in Gaza and Exhort Berlin to suspend arms deliveries and to consider other sanctions.

Among the new signatories are the musician Nina Chuba, director Fatih Akin and actress Sandra Hüller.

“We also condemn the horrible crimes committed by Hamas in the strongest possible terms. But no crime collectively justifies millions of innocent people in the most brutal way,” said the letter.

The signatories also expressed their concern about the reported plans of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to occupy the entire Gaza Strip, urging the German government to act.

Germany is one of the main arms suppliers in Israel in Europe. Calls to suspend exports have intensified as civilian victims go up to Gaza.