Jerusalem Faces Backlash Over Municipal Subsidy for Eyal Golan Concert
A planned Jerusalem concert featuring Israeli singer Eyal Golan has sparked outrage because the municipality is subsidizing tickets for an event coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
Israeli singer Eyal Golan has sparked a fresh public uproar following the announcement of his upcoming participation in the "Hanukkah Hysteria" show at the Pais Arena in Jerusalem. Controversy erupted after it was revealed that the Jerusalem Municipality is subsidizing ticket purchases for the event, which is scheduled for November 25—coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
The timing of the subsidy has drawn sharp criticism from city officials and public figures, particularly as Golan's past involvement in sexual offense allegations remains a sensitive issue. The municipality has promoted the event through its "Yerushalmi" resident benefit club, making tickets more accessible to the public but fueling backlash over the convergence of dates.
Municipal Pushback and Political Reaction
Yael Biton de Lange, Deputy Mayor and Portfolio Holder for the Advancement of the Status of Women and Gender Equality, voiced strong opposition to the initiative. "It is quite bizarre and deeply offensive to many residents and to myself that precisely on the day we mark the peak event against violence toward women, singer Eyal Golan—over whom hangs a cloud of allegations regarding sexual and verbal misconduct—will perform here, backed by municipal funding," she stated, noting that the city has been flooded with protests from local residents.
Member of Knesset Adi Azoz of the "BeYachad" party also intervened, sending an urgent appeal to the Mayor of Jerusalem to cancel the subsidy. "While complainants struggle for years for due process, the municipality is subsidizing tickets for his show on the very day dedicated to combating violence against women," Azoz declared, warning that such municipal support risks deepening the trauma of victims and discouraging others from coming forward.
The Municipality's Response
In defense of its decision, the Jerusalem Municipality issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to cultural accessibility for all residents. "The Jerusalem Municipality supports the subsidization of ticket purchases for all cultural events across the city through the 'Yerushalmi' resident benefit club, thereby expanding cultural offerings and allowing citizens to enjoy the performances they love," city officials responded.
