Lauryn Hill cancels performance in Israel

The pop star had been scheduled to perform near Tel Aviv on Thursday but faced a social media backlash from activists.

She posted on Facebook: “When deciding to play the region, my intention was to perform in both Tel Aviv and Ramallah. Setting up a performance in the Palestinian Territory, at the same time as our show in Israel, proved to be a challenge.

“I’ve wanted very much to bring our live performance to this part of the world, but also to be a presence supporting justice and peace.

“It is very important to me that my presence or message not be misconstrued, or a source of alienation to either my Israeli or my Palestinian fans.

“For this reason, we have decided to cancel the upcoming performance in Israel, and seek a different strategy to bring my music to ALL of my fans in the region. May healing, equanimity, and the openness necessary for lasting resolution and reconciliation come to this region and its people.”