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Thom Yorke Rejects Israel Performance Amid Band Tensions

10/27/2025

27 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Thom Yorke, a member of the band, reiterated his refusal to perform in Israel while Prime Minister Netanyahu is in power.
He described the backlash from pro-Palestinian activists as a "witch-hunt."
Jonny Greenwood, a member of the band, disagreed, arguing that boycotts could reinforce negative narratives about Israel.
The band acknowledges growing tensions among them regarding their differing views as they prepare for a European tour.

History

Historical Context

Launched in 2005 by over 170 Palestinian civil society organizations, the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement aims to pressure Israel to comply with international law regarding Palestinian rights. Modeled after the anti-apartheid movement, BDS has gained global support, with over 1,000 artists endorsing the boycott, reflecting ongoing debates about cultural activism and the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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Story summary

Thom Yorke, a member of the band, reiterated his refusal to perform in Israel while Prime Minister Netanyahu is in power.
He described the backlash from pro-Palestinian activists as a "witch-hunt."
Jonny Greenwood, a member of the band, disagreed, arguing that boycotts could reinforce negative narratives about Israel.
The band acknowledges growing tensions among them regarding their differing views as they prepare for a European tour.

1 / 2