Kid Cudi Calls for Israel-Gaza Ceasefire: ‘I Stand With the People of Palestine’

Kid Cudi is speaking out in support of Palestine, joining the chorus of celebrity voices calling for a ceasefire as the increasingly deadly war between Israel and Hamas rages on.

"The things I've been seeing in the news have been breaking my heart. I can't watch what's happening in the world and remain silent," the rapper wrote in a lengthy statement posted to Instagram on Sunday. "I can't imagine the pain people are feeling."

"It doesn't feel right to share the music I have coming out and pretend like there isn't a part of the world burning, thousands of people being murdered,” he continued. "I know some people are gonna disagree with me, but that's OK. As a Black man, I stand against all forms of oppression. And as an artist, I feel responsible to give a voice to the unheard, and to celebrate the spirit of all people through my work and my presence."

"It matters to me that my art represents my deepest beliefs about what I think humanity can look like. I'm hopeful we won't attack each other on the basis of upholding basic human rights. I'll always encourage peace for everyone – physical peace, mental peace, spiritual peace. No matter the religion or ethnicity, the loss of innocent lives is never acceptable."

Kid Cudi went on to note that he also condemns the violence against Israel, emphasizing the distinction between criticizing the Israeli government and being anti-Semitic.

"I recognize that there's more to the story than what's happened over these past few weeks. And it goes without saying, I love my Jewish brothers and sisters and condemn any violence towards them," he added. "Your losses are unimaginable and you are all in my prayers. My prayers also go out to the hostages and their families, may they be returned safely."

"In the same breath, the collective punishment Palestinians are suffering under Israel's illegal occupation is unfathomable. Anti-Semitism is never welcome. But let's be clear – supporting Palestinian liberation is not anti-Semitic, it's human. Palestinians deserve their freedom. This isn't politics, these are real lives. And I'm just a dude who gives a f--- about humanity."

"I stand with the people of Palestine as they demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the ongoing genocide. My heart goes out to all my brothers and sisters of all faiths and backgrounds who are suffering. Free Palestine!"