Miriam Margolyes Urges Jews Worldwide to Push for Ceasefire in Gaza
LONDON: Renowned English-Australian actress Miriam Margolyes has not held back in expressing her deep “shame” of Israel’s actions in Gaza, calling for a global outcry for a ceasefire. The 82-year-old “Harry Potter” star released a powerful statement through the Jewish Council of Australia, as reported by The Guardian on April 9.
Margolyes did not mince her words, stating, “To me, it seems as if Hitler has won. He’s changed us Jews from being compassionate and caring into this vicious, genocidal, nationalist nation, pursuing and killing women and children.” Her condemnation of Israel’s prolonged campaign in Gaza following the Hamas attack on Oct. 7 was unequivocal, labeling it as “shocking, embarrassing, and wicked.”
Expressing her bewilderment, Margolyes questioned why more Jewish people, especially those affiliated with synagogues, are not taking a stand against the ongoing violence. She emphasized the urgent need for action to halt the bloodshed.
While also condemning the Hamas attack, Margolyes stressed that differing opinions on Israel’s actions during wartime should not be seen as antisemitic. She emphasized the importance of doing the right thing, advocating for a ceasefire to prevent further loss of life and demanding the release of hostages.
The actress, known for her role in Martin Scorsese’s “The Age of Innocence,” maintained that criticizing Israel’s actions does not equate to antisemitism. She boldly stated, “What Israel is doing is wrong, it is wicked.”