Hundreds of prominent American Jews, artists and hundreds of rabbis have published a full-page message in the New York Times, clearly opposing US President Donald Trump's proposal to permanently relocate the population of Gaza.
The message, which appeared on page A7 of the prestigious newspaper, contains a short and strong message: "Trump called for the removal of all Palestinians from Gaza. Jews say NO to ethnic cleansing!"
350 rabbis took out this full-page ad in @nytimes today opposing Trump's plans for ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in Gaza.
— Jews for Racial & Economic Justice (@JFREJNYC) February 13, 2025
➡️ Add your voice to theirs, go to https://t.co/oMAz1jaMnZ
➡️ Go to https://t.co/v6qeZNhPQi #SayNoToEthnicCleansing #GazaIsNotForSale pic.twitter.com/HwRG7jWz0r
The signatories are well-known actors and public figures, including Joaquin Phoenix and his siblings Summer and Rain, Ilana Glazer, Eric André, Morgan Spector, Tony Kushner, Jonathan Glazer, Larry Charles, Naomi Klein, Peter Beinart, Tavi Gavison and Wallace Shawn. Many of them have previously spoken publicly in support of the Palestinians.
In addition to public figures, the message was signed by hundreds of rabbis, including Sharon Brous, Amichai Lau-Lavie, Amy Eilberg, Sally Priesand, Elyse Wechterman, Dan Wolpe, Jill Jacobs, Alissa Wise, Brant Rosen, Francine Roston, Lizzi Heydemann, Susan Maileba. Among them are many prominent liberal rabbis and advocates of left-wing Jewish activism.
The message is linked to the website of the “In Our Name” campaign, which aims to raise $10 million for organizations that support Palestinian-led efforts in the fight for security, dignity, and self-determination. The funds are also intended for pro-Palestinian organizing in the United States.
Trump's idea of depopulating Gaza has sparked strong reactions around the world. While liberal Jewish groups strongly condemned the proposal, the Israeli government and right-wing Jewish organizations expressed support. There are also divisions within Trump's party over the issue.
This message in The New York Times shows that there is a powerful debate within the Jewish community in America about the future of Gaza and the role of the US in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.