(NEW YORK)—PEN America is outraged by images of an Israeli soldier setting fire to books in a library in Gaza. Book burning and the destruction of libraries infringe on the human right to access and enjoy cultural heritage which is guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These rights are an expression of and a requisite of human dignity.
PEN America notes comments from the Israeli military that this incident is being investigated and calls on the Israeli government to take all steps to protect Palestinian cultural heritage and infrastructure in Gaza.
About PEN America
PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect free expression in the United States and worldwide. We champion the freedom to write, recognizing the power of the word to transform the world. Our mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible. Learn more at pen.org.
Contact: Suzanne Trimel, [email protected], (201) 247-5057