Multiple authors have declined awards and nominations from PEN America due to dissatisfaction with the organization's position on the war in Gaza. Among those withdrawing are Jean Stein nominee Camonghne Felix, poetry finalist Eugenia Leigh, and short story nominee Ghassan Zeineddine. Nine out of 60 nominated authors have requested to be removed from consideration. PEN's response to Israel's invasion of Gaza, following an attack by Hamas, has drawn criticism for not fully condemning the war that resulted in the deaths of many Palestinians, including writers and academics.
ABC News
By HILLEL ITALIE