
Israeli DJ Cancels Tomorrowland Set Over ‘Threatening’ Pressure from Pro-Palestinian Group
An Israeli electronic music artist abruptly canceled a major performance at Belgium’s Tomorrowland festival on Saturday, July 26, 2025, citing severe pressure from a pro-Palestinian organization and growing security concerns.
DJ Skazi, whose real name is Asher Swissa, was scheduled to perform at the globally renowned electronic dance music (EDM) event but withdrew just hours before his set. In a social media statement, he attributed the decision to safety reasons and a commitment to his core message of love and music.
“Due to security considerations and our deep commitment to spreading only love and music, my performance at Tomorrowland scheduled for Today, July 26th has been cancelled,” Swissa wrote, after returning to Israel from Belgium.
Speaking to reporters upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, Swissa elaborated on the situation. “There was a pro-Palestinian organization that was really on our backs, doing everything to stop it from happening,” he said. “It was all very intense and threatening.”
The pressure campaign reportedly originated from 11.11.11, a Belgian pro-Palestinian group, which posted on social media calling for festival organizers to disinvite Swissa. The group accused him of being part of an Israeli “propaganda campaign” and highlighted his nickname “combat DJ”—a reference to his previous performances for IDF troops in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, Hamas terror attacks.
Photos of Swissa, clad in military-style clothing and waving an Israeli flag while entertaining soldiers, circulated widely and were referenced by critics.
Tomorrowland organizers issued a statement respecting his decision to withdraw, affirming that it was not theirs. “We respect and appreciate Skazi’s decision to withdraw at this time,” they stated. “We maintain deep respect for Skazi’s musical journey and hope to hear his music on one of our stages again in the future.”
Skazi’s withdrawal comes amid a broader trend of artists, businesses, and public figures facing mounting pressures related to their affiliations or perceived political stances amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. His departure also comes just days after the Tomorrowland main stage was severely damaged in a fire, further complicating the event’s logistics.
The annual event in Boom, Belgium, is considered the world’s largest EDM festival, drawing over 400,000 attendees across two weekends. Swissa had been a regular feature at the festival for 14 years, making his sudden exit all the more notable.
The incident has sparked debate about freedom of expression, artist safety, and the growing intersection of music and politics on the global stage. (NYP/VFI News)
“Lord, we pray for the safety and courage of Israeli artists and individuals who stand for truth and peace. Shield them from intimidation and threats, and may Your love overcome hatred. Strengthen those who promote unity through creativity, and let peace reign over all nations and platforms.”
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