Reply #7: Singer Elvis Costello cancels concerts in Israel

[Judi Lynn]

Source: Associated Press

Singer Elvis Costello cancels concerts in Israel
The Associated Press
Thursday, May 20, 2010; 5:50 AM

JERUSALEM -- British singer-songwriter Elvis Costello is canceling two summer concerts in Israel because of its treatment of the Palestinians.

In an announcement on his Web site explaining his decision, Costello spoke of "intimidation, humiliation or much worse" inflicted by Israel on the Palestinians.

Costello told The Jerusalem Post earlier this month he was against boycotts, saying it would be like avoiding the U.S. or England because he disagreed with the policies of their governments. Thursday's edition of the paper quoted Costello as explaining his apparent change of heart by saying the issues "became too complex."

Israeli Culture Minister Limor Livnat said a singer who boycotts Israeli fans "is not worthy of performing in front of them."



Read more: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/05/20/AR2010052000734.html