JM Coetzee declines to attend Jerusalem writers festival over Israel’s ‘genocidal campaign in Gaza’
Summary
JM Coetzee, a Nobel Prize-winning author, declined to attend the Jerusalem international writers festival because of Israel’s military actions in Gaza. He described the situation as a "genocidal campaign" and said it will take a long time for Israel to regain its reputation.Key Facts
- JM Coetzee declined an invitation to the Jerusalem writers festival in May.
- He called Israel’s campaign in Gaza "genocidal" and disproportionate to the October 7, 2023 attack.
- Coetzee said much of Israeli society, including intellectuals, shares responsibility for the actions in Gaza.
- Previously, Coetzee supported Israel and visited Jerusalem in 1987 to receive the Jerusalem Prize.
- He said the current situation with Gaza has changed his view and caused many supporters to turn away.
- The festival’s artistic director shared Coetzee’s harsh response in April, saying it shocked her.
- A UN committee found evidence suggesting Israel has genocidal intent in Gaza.
- Amnesty International reports ongoing harm to Gaza’s civilians even during ceasefires.
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