Israeli DJ Skazi cancels performance at Tomorrowland
Israeli DJ Skazi has cancelled his performance at Tomorrowland due to "security considerations", following controversy over his support for the IDF. He announced the cancellation on social media on Saturday.
"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," the DJ wrote in an Instagram story.
Asher Swissa, who performs under the name Skazi, has been criticised in Belgium for supporting the Israeli army and condoning genocide. Swissa refers to himself as a "combat DJ" and has performed for IDF soldiers in the Gaza Strip free of charge.
On Friday, De Morgen reported that Swissa had also worked on the music for a propaganda video about the Israeli army which contained the Arabic lyrics, "You came like rats from a sewer... We will dance on the ruins of Gaza”.
Positive atmosphere
"My priority is to ensure a safe and positive atmosphere for everyone involved," Swissa wrote on Instagram. “My message has always been and will continue to be: one of unity, joy and mutual respect.”
In a statement, the festival organisation said that it appreciates and respects Swissra's decision to step back. “Like many of our stakeholders, we were confronted with questions about his performance, and we value the open and thoughtful dialogue that ensued,” said spokeswoman Debby Wilmsen.
Still welcome
The organisation investigated Swissa's statements and concluded that little of what he said was problematic. Swissa was still welcome, and had promised Tomorrowland that he would take to the stage without a microphone or an Israeli flag, unlike last year. Ultimately, he decided to cancel his performance himself.
“At Tomorrowland, we are fully committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for everyone. That is, and always will be, at the heart of our work. We continue to have great respect for Skazi's musical journey and hope to hear his music on one of our stages again in the future,” said Wilmsen.
#FlandersNewsService | The first day of the Tomorrowland electronic music festival in Boom, Belgium, on 18 July 2025 © BELGA PHOTO MARIUS BURGELMAN
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