Singer Static Defends Eden Ben Zaken Amid Calls to Boycott Her Over Netanyahu's Attendance

Israeli singer Liraz Russo, known as Static, publicly defended fellow artist Eden Ben Zaken following calls to boycott her after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attended her concert at Menora Mivtachim Arena in Tel Aviv. Static, who shares a judging panel with Ben Zaken on a reality show, criticized those targeting her as a scapegoat, urging people to focus on more important issues. In an Instagram story, he stated, "You can disagree, be angry, or criticize, but since when do we look for a scapegoat instead of dealing with what really matters?" He added, "I'm backing Eden."

The controversy erupted after Netanyahu and his wife surprised the audience by appearing at Ben Zaken's performance. Left-wing activists reacted negatively, calling for a boycott of the singer and even demanding her removal from the reality show judging panel. Netanyahu responded on social media, questioning the "thought police" mentality and defending freedom of opinion. He referenced past cases where artists with differing views were not ostracized, emphasizing unity despite political differences.

Static highlighted the timing of the dispute, noting it comes just before another election cycle that could divide the country further. He urged people to remember that those who think differently are not enemies. Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, expressing love and solidarity with Ben Zaken and her supporters, asserting that love will prevail over division.