Lauryn Hill Cancels Israel Show To Avoid Stirring Tensions

Lauryn Hill is canceling a planned performance in Tel Aviv because she wasn’t able to also schedule a concert in the nearby Palestinian city of Ramallah.

The singer-songwriter said in a statement Monday that she originally intended to perform in both cities in hopes of being “a presence supporting justice and peace.”

She says setting up a show in the Palestinian territories “proved to be a challenge.” Not wanting to alienate fans, Hill canceled her concert in Israel that was to take place later this week.

Photo: Shahar Azran / Apollo Theater
"One Love: A Bob Marley Tribute Concert," Apollo Theater, New York City

Hill says she’s seeking a different approach to bring her music to fans in the region. She says she’s hoping for healing in the area and “the openness necessary for lasting resolution and reconciliation.”