Dror Rafael Questions Singer Judith Ravitz's Political Shift

Israeli journalist Dror Rafael has commented on the recent public stir surrounding singer Judith Ravitz's social media activity, which has shifted towards pro-Israel and right-wing content. Rafael, speaking on the podcast "Lo S'tomim" with comedian Hadar Levy, expressed surprise at Ravitz's apparent change in political alignment, noting her previous prominent involvement in protests against the government.

During the podcast, Rafael mimicked Ravitz with an exaggerated Mizrahi accent, which some interpreted as a nod to stereotypes linking the political right with Mizrahi identity. He quipped, "I'm right-wing now, yes, what's the problem?! Yes, I'm sharing Bibi, what do you want from me?" He further conveyed his astonishment, stating, "Madam, this is not Judith Ravitz," and questioning, "She's the most delicate, what came out of her?"

Levy, however, expressed admiration for Ravitz's conviction and her willingness to stand by her choices. Both hosts recalled Ravitz's participation in the Kaplan protest against the government just three years prior, where she sang "Hatikvah" for demonstrators. Rafael also mentioned that Ravitz, who previously struggled with stage fright, had been liking and sharing posts from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The controversy erupted after Ravitz began sharing pro-Israel advocacy videos and content associated with the right, including liking posts from Netanyahu. When approached by "Ha'Tzinor" on Reshet 13, Ravitz confirmed she manages her own Instagram account and stands by her actions, stating, "I am aware of the actions I am taking. No one operates my Instagram, it is my private account and I take full responsibility."

Despite her online activity, Ravitz refrained from defining herself as right-wing, asserting, "I am in reality, I am not on the political map." This phenomenon of cultural figures reportedly shifting their views post-October 7th has been dubbed "the awakened" by some, with singer Kobi Aflalo also noting a shift to the right after the attack. Ravitz's case, however, is characterized by social media actions rather than an explicit declaration of changing political allegiance.

Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledged Ravitz's support on social media, thanking her. The singer found herself at the center of a political debate, even as she returned to the spotlight with the reunion of "Ha'Keshet Ha'Shisha Asar." While the public speculates about her evolving views, Ravitz herself appears to prefer to keep political labels aside.