Achinoam Nini: “Both Hamas and the Israeli Government Are Committing Crimes Against Humanity”

Israeli singer Achinoam Nini took to Instagram on Saturday to issue a scathing statement against both Hamas and the Israeli government, accusing them of perpetrating crimes against humanity. “Hamas and the Israeli government, unimpeded by an indifferent international community that is thus complicit, are committing crimes against humanity,” Nini wrote in English.

Her post followed and amplified a message shared by fellow artist Mira Awad, who expressed horror at the ongoing violence in Gaza. “The atrocities happening in Gaza haunt me day and night,” Awad wrote. “I feel a deep revulsion that the international community is allowing this to happen. Leaders around the world condemn the war and famine with words - and then send more money and weapons to fuel them.”

Awad also emphasized her empathy toward Israeli victims of the October 7 attacks: “My compassion for them, the murdered, the wounded, the traumatized, the displaced, the hostages, and their families, does not contradict the sorrow I feel for the people of Gaza.”

Nini reposted Awad’s message and added her own: “I agree with every word my sister Mira Awad wrote. I am beyond devastated. Stop this madness! There is no justification, no morality, no excuse. Not in my name, and not in the name of countless citizens of my country. I will not stay silent. Release the hostages, stop the massacre. Stop it!”

Both artists have long been known for their vocal stances on political issues. Their joint criticism now adds to a growing chorus of public figures speaking out against the prolonged conflict in Gaza.