Sharif, a popular Israeli-Arab singer, canceled a show on New Year’s Eve in the West Bank because of threats from Palestinian activists opposed to coexistence with Israel, the performer and police said.
It was the latest in a string of cancellations after threats and other pressure tactics by Palestinian groups promoting a boycott of virtually anything connected with Israel. The boycott movement says its tactics are a nonviolent way to protest Israeli policies.
Israeli officials denounce the efforts as “delegitimization” of Israel’s right to exist.
Sharif said he was expecting to perform before thousands of Palestinian fans on New Year’s Eve in Ramallah, but was told the day before that his concert was being canceled because of a threat to his life.
“I’m an artist and I want to sing before all audiences,” said Sharif, a member of Israel’s Arab Druse minority who sees himself as a bridge between the two sides. “I’m a man of peace, not politics. I just want to bring my music to my fans.”
Palestinian activists campaigned against his concert because he has performed for Israeli soldiers.
Palestinian police said the decision to cancel the show was based purely on security concerns. They said once they became aware of the opposition, which was organized in a Facebook campaign, they ordered the concert canceled.
“When we see people bracing to bar a controversial party like this, we interfere to prevent any tension or violence,” said Adnan Damari, a police spokesman.
Sharif said he separates his performances from politics. “I belong to both sides,” said Sharif, 32, who performed earlier in 2011 in the West Bank.
It wasn’t the only controversy in Ramallah on New Year’s Eve.
Palestinian singer Basel Zayed was prevented from completing his concert after he performed a song that mocked the Palestinian leadership. Under pressure from Palestinian police, organizers shut down the event. — ap