The Israeli DJ Skazi has canceled his performance at the Belgian dance festival Tomorrowland on Saturday at the last minute. He cites “safety considerations” as the reason. There was controversy surrounding his arrival, but according to the festival, he remained welcome.
DJ Skazi announced the news on Instagram. “My priority is to ensure a safe and positive atmosphere for everyone involved,” he writes. The festival organization confirms the news, according to press agency Belga.
Controversy arose around Skazi’s arrival because of his outspoken support for the Israeli army. Solidarity organization 11.11.11 called on Tomorrowland to ban him. The organization accuses him of “glorifying genocide” and calls his performance “unacceptable given the dehumanizing images from Gaza.”
Tomorrowland investigated DJ Skazi’s statements and saw no reason to cancel the performance on Friday. Skazi promised the festival organization to perform without an Israeli flag or microphone, something he did at last year’s edition.
“I have always wanted to bring a message of unity, joy and mutual respect. Much love to the People of Tomorrow and see you soon!”, writes the DJ. At the time he wrote the message, he was already on the plane to Israel.
“We continue to have great respect for Skazi’s musical journey and hope to hear his music resonate again on one of our stages in the future,” responds a Tomorrowland spokesperson.