Israeli singer asks Bruni to sing for Shalit

Amir Benayun sends letter to French president's wife requesting she record one of his songs in French to raise awareness for captive soldier's situation

Reuters | Published: 06.13.11, 08:33

Carla Bruni-Sarkozy was contacted by Israeli singer Amir Benayun, who requested Saturday that she record one of his songs to raise awareness for captive soldier Gilad Shalit, who is also a French citizen.

The wife of the French president was to receive a personal letter written by the Israeli singer asking her to record his hit song "When You're Sad" in French. Benayun added a CD with the song and its translation to French.

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Benayun told Bruni he believes that with her help the song could make headlines all over the world and raise public awareness regarding Shalit's situation.

"The Israeli people are waiting for Gilad's return. His mother was separated from him in one cruel moment… She is unable to tell him she misses him or that her longing for him grows by the minute," wrote Benayun.

"I turn to you, as a future mother, the wife of the French president – but especially as a singer – and I ask of you to record this song yourself and distribute it to the world."

Benayun praised Bruni. "I believe that you, an mother to be, are the right person to sing a song of hope for Gilad. With your high status in France and across the world, you can help shape public opinion, which can help free him. Your rendition could help bring him home quickly, safe and sound."

Deputy Foreign Minister Daniel Ayalon announced he would pass the letter along to Bruni when he arrives in France, adding: "We pray for the return of Gilad."

Just last week Bruni had responded to a letter sent to her by Sara Netanyahu and said that "France is doing everything to put an end to Shalit's suffering."

"Just like you, I hope with all my heart that the affair will soon come to an end," she wrote to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's wife.