Mandy Patinkin and Kathryn Grody on Gaza: A Powerful Plea to Jews and a Scathing Critique of Netanyahu

NEW YORK – Actor Mandy Patinkin and author Kathryn Grody, joined by their son Gideon Grody-Patinkin, recently participated in The New York Times’ “The Interview” podcast, where they discussed the ongoing situation in Israel and Gaza and reflected on contemporary Jewish identity. The couple, known for their political activism, shared their perspectives on the conflict and its broader implications. Kathryn Grody expressed her deep concern regarding the weaponization of antisemitism claims. “I hate the way some people are using antisemitism as a claim for anybody that is critical about a certain policy,” she stated. She emphasized the importance of compassion, adding, “As far as I am concerned, compassion for every person in Gaza, you know, is very Jewish.” Grody also asserted that criticizing the policies of the Israeli leader does not equate to self-hatred or antisemitism. Mandy Patinkin, known for his role in “The Princess Bride,” drew a parallel to a line from the film, stating, “I have been in the revenge business so long. Now that it’s over, I do not know what to do with the rest of my life.” He then directly addressed Jewish people worldwide, urging them “to consider what this man Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing government is doing to the Jewish people all over the world.” Patinkin unequivocally stated, “They are endangering not only the State of Israel, which I care deeply about and want to exist, but they are endangering the Jewish population all over the world. He is the most dangerous thing… It has been a deeply troubled situation.” He concluded by calling the actions “unconscionable and unthinkable,” imploring Jews globally to reflect on whether such actions are acceptable and sustainable.

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