This concerns Madonna fans and supporters of peace in general.

I am a life-long Madonna fan and the image has long disturbed me. 

In 2009, Madonna performed in Israel. The Israeli press reported that she spent time with Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife at their home. Madonna has since been photographed with Sara Netanyahu. On another occasion, she met the late Shimon Peres, former prime minister and president of the State of Israel. 

On 22 November 2024, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu. The ICC has reasonable grounds to believe he has committed war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. The US is not a signatory to the ICC but 125 countries have signed up to the court. 

Madonna has spoken about peace in the Middle East, but her statements ring hollow when she has fraternised with Israel's leaders. She has not commented on the ongoing wars in Gaza and Lebanon. 

What I want is actionable: 

In light of the arrest warrant, Madonna should detail her associations with Benjamin Netanyahu. She should answer whether her association with him is ongoing. She is being asked to speak out. 

Madonna is a high-profile public figure. With whom she associates matters. She relies on the money and support of many millions of fans, not only in the United States but around the world. In turn, her fans should be awarded the choice of whether or not to buy her records or concert tickets. 

I approached Madonna’s team for a comment. I have not yet heard back from them. Their silence highlights the imbalance of power between Madonna and her fans. 

We must hold the powerful to account. Our cultural figures can be as powerful as our politicians. It is time to speak truth to power, cultural power.