President Reuven Rivlin has informed Israeli singer Amir Benayoun that his invitation to perform at an official function has been canceled. The reason given is Benayoun’s new song, “Ahmed Loves Israel”, in which he describes the intentions of an Arab student who plans to carry out a terror attack.

Benayoun was to perform as part of events scheduled to mark the exile and expulsion of Jews from Arab Lands and Iran, due to take place at the President’s Residence this coming Sunday, 8 Kislev.

Director General of the President’s Residence Harel Tubi stated in a letter to the event organizers, “Against the background of the release of Amir Benayoun’s latest song yesterday, I wish to notify you that we will not be able to allow him to perform at the President’s Residence. Amir Benayoun is a renowned and exceptional artist, and his talent has greatly contributed to Israeli music. However, his statements made at this time of conflict and tension, even if uttered out of frustration and pain, do not, to say the least, help bring calm to the streets, and are inconsistent with the responsibility required of the President’s Residence, and of all institutions with influence over the public discourse, to work to alleviate tensions, and promote cooperation rather than division in Israeli society.”

The controversial song prompted Meretz MK Esawi Frij to call on police to launch an incitement investigation against the singer.

Frej citing verses from the song, including “Tomorrow I will fly to heaven, and send a Jew or two to hell,” and “One day, the moment will come, you’ll turn your back and I’ll stab you with a sharpened ax.” The MK called the song inciteful and distasteful and believes it violates Israeli law prohibiting incitement.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)