The terrorist attack on Israel, the massacre of young revellers at a music festival, the kidnapping, rape and murder of hundreds of innocent people are barbaric acts for which there is simply no justification. Our sympathy and solidarity go out to those directly affected: the victims and their families.

Together with the organisations Bündnis gegen Antisemitismus and Bündnis Weltoffenes Dresden as well as the Saxon Association of Jewish Communities, the Saxon State Theatres are supporting the »Kidnapped From Israel« campaign. Under the motto »Nie wieder ist jetzt« (Never again is now), this campaign aims to spotlight the fate of the hostages and increase pressure on negotiations for their release.

Our thoughts are also with our friends from the Jewish communities here in Dresden as well as our Jewish and Israeli colleagues and guests, for whom the events of October 7th marked a profound turning point in their lives.

Of course, it must be recognised that the legitimate defence of the state of Israel against the terrorist attack by Hamas is also leading to countless civilian victims on the Palestinian side. Here all parties must urgently comply with international law and ensure the free passage of humanitarian aid. As a cultural institution that thrives on the work of international artists, our doors must always remain open to people from all over the world. To this end, we maintain an unwavering belief in the power of understanding and dialogue.

We sincerely hope that the conflict will soon come to an end and that the forces of moderation will prevail in the region.

Your
Peter Theiler
Intendant of the Staatsoper Dresden