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

Over 160 German artists and media figures have joined a growing call to halt German weapons exports to Israel, bringing the number of signatories to 367, according to campaign group Avaaz.

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

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

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

The signatories also voiced concern over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s reported plans to occupy the entire Gaza Strip, urging the German government to act.

Germany is one of Israel’s key arms suppliers in Europe. Calls to suspend exports have intensified as civilian casualties mount in Gaza.