Breaking BDS News: Sam Smith Cancels Their Concert in Tel Aviv

[May 5, 2023] Press Advisory for Immediate Release

Sandra Tamari, Executive Director of Adalah Justice Project: “Adalah Justice Project (AJP) welcomes the decision of international pop star, Sam Smith, to cancel their concert in Tel Aviv. This cancellation demonstrates the power of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement for Palestinian freedom, a movement whose supporters have long advocated for artists to take a stand against Israel's illegal occupation and apartheid regime.”

She continued, “Despite Israeli claims that logistical issues were to blame for the cancellation, AJP recognizes that Sam’s decision came as a result of pressure from activists, organizers, and the over 11,000 individuals who signed onto our campaign calling on Smith to cancel the show. This shows that when we come together and take action, change is possible.”


Sandra Tamari went on to say, “Sam Smith canceling their Tel Aviv show is a step in the right direction but there is still time for Sam Smith to publicly take a stand for Palestinian human rights. Every voice matters in the fight for justice.”

AJP would like to thank all those who supported this campaign, including Palestinian-led organizations and queer activists in Palestine, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This success demonstrates the power of solidarity and the importance of standing together in the face of oppression.



Sumaya Awad, Adalah Justice Project’s Director of Communications, said, “We hope that other artists will follow Sam Smith's lead and take a stand against Israel's human rights violations and apartheid regime. We will continue to hold artists and companies accountable for their complicity until justice is served for Palestinians.”

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Sandra Tamari, [email protected]