Israeli cultural organizations issued a statement condemning “attacks on the very idea of free culture” after some 1,000 Israeli artists were criticized for signing a petition called “Stop the Horror in Gaza.”
The petition called for an end to the war and the safe return of hostages still held in Gaza. It also accused Israel of causing starvation and urged soldiers not to “follow illegal orders” or “commit war crimes.”
Signed by organizations including the Association of Museums and ICOM Israel, the Israeli Directors' Guild, and the Israeli Actors' Association, the statement said, “In recent weeks, we have witnessed a troubling wave of threats and attacks against creators, cultural organizations, and Israeli artworks.”
“The focus of these attacks is on the very idea of free culture—one that allows itself to ask questions, challenge, critique, and dream, and one that must also include uncomfortable voices. This is the essence and very existence of culture.”
The statement continued, expressing concern over the “inflammatory public discourse that seeks to punish and boycott artists based on their positions, identity, or the content of their work.”
The organizations warned that this growing trend creates an atmosphere of fear, persecution, censorship, and a threat to cultural freedom in Israel, as well as the individual right to freedom of expression and creativity.
Challenging thought, raising questions, and offering criticism, the statement added, “are not attacks on the state, the government, or the military; they are a testament to society’s resilience, its ability to examine itself, clarify reality, and work toward continuous improvement.”
The statement emphasized that cultural figures have a right to express their opinions, “even when they are controversial or unpopular.” It continued, stating that a democratic society must protect all opinions, especially those on the margins, and not only those held by the majority.
“Art is not meant to serve governmental positions or the opinion of the majority. Its role is to reflect, critique, challenge, deconstruct, and reconstruct reality – to be a mirror,” it said.
The organizations called on creators, artists, performers, and cultural figures to stand firm in the face of the backlash over the petition.
“Continue to make your voices heard, express your views, and create with courage, compassion, and honesty. Israeli society needs a diversity of voices, inspiration, and provocative, free, and stimulating art, especially in difficult times.”
The organizations concluded, stating that freedom of expression and creation is not a privilege. "It is a fundamental condition for a healthy, free, and open society. Let us stand together and protect this right – for culture, for humanity, for democracy, and for the future of the State of Israel.”
Criticism of artists' anti-war petition
On Monday, Arad Mayor Yair Maayan announced that the artists who signed the petition would not be allowed to perform in the city.
“In accordance with the decision of the Arad Municipal Council, the municipality will not allow incitement against IDF soldiers,” the mayor stated.
“These artists are similar to the list of reserve service refusers who have not served in the reserves for years,” he added. “We have chosen the side of the IDF soldiers and the State of Israel.”
Additionally, singer and Fauda star Idan Amedi, who was injured during his reserve service, sharply criticized the Israeli creatives who signed the petition, calling it “detached and fake news.”
“Every home in Gaza is filled with antisemitic, anti-Jewish propaganda. From images of ‘martyrs’ to stickers saying, ‘With blood and fire we will reach Jerusalem,’” he wrote.
“A group of privileged people echoing stupidity, ignorance, and lies. There is no other army in the world that operates in such a densely populated area with such a low civilian casualty rate. This is proven - go check.”