British-Iranian actor Kayvan Novak, known for his roles in 'Four Lions' and 'What We Do In The Shadows', has publicly condemned Israel over the killing of Palestinian children during its ongoing assault on Gaza.
In a deeply personal Instagram post, Novak shared a photo of his one-year-old son and reflected on the human cost of the war.
"This is my son. He just turned 1," he wrote. "From the time of his conception until now, Israel has massacred and continues to massacre THOUSANDS of Palestinian children just like him, just like my son. If your conscience allows you to stay silent, good for you. Mine does not."
Novak's statement comes as growing numbers of figures in the entertainment industry speak out against Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and the mounting civilian death toll.
In the UK, actor and comedian Steve Coogan led more than 2,000 artists in signing an open letter calling for an immediate ceasefire, accusing the British government of "aiding and abetting" war crimes. Signatories included Tilda Swinton, Charles Dance, and Miriam Margolyes.
In the United States, the Artists4Ceasefire initiative has drawn support from major figures such as Mark Ruffalo, Dua Lipa, and Joaquin Phoenix.
Singer Halsey also added her voice on Instagram, writing: "Children being massacred, hospitals being attacked… innocent civilians slain in the name of war. I can’t take this anymore."
At the 2024 Oscars, several stars, including Ramy Youssef and Mark Ruffalo, wore pins in support of a ceasefire in Gaza.
"We're all calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire," Youssef said. "We want lasting justice and peace for the Palestinian people."