Israeli singer Eyal Golan performed in the French capital on Monday night amid protests by pro-Palestinian activists who gathered earlier in the day to oppose his appearance.
Protesters accused Golan and French-Israelis of being complicit in what they called "genocide against Palestinians" due to their military service. In response, Golan’s team said he was surrounded by heightened security due to the threats and demonstrations.
Eyal Golan performs in Paris amid pro-Palestinian protests
Addressing the controversy during his concert, Golan said, “We all know that there is antisemitism here in Paris. Even tonight, there are protests and threats outside because we are Jews. But I have news for anyone who has a problem with that: we will not be silent, we will not apologize and no one will stop us from singing and celebrating together—in Hebrew, everywhere in the world.”
He added, “To all those who hate Israel: we, the Jews and Israelis, will never surrender or apologize. We are strong—strongest when we are united, one great Star of David shining bright.”
Pro-Palestinian protests outside Eyal Golan's Paris concert
Golan's upcoming concert series at Tel Aviv’s Bloomfield Stadium comes as he faces renewed public scrutiny over past allegations tied to the "Social Games" case—a high-profile scandal from the early 2010s involving allegations that Golan and others exploited underage girls at parties organized by adults in his inner circle.
A key witness recently testified in the Knesset about systemic abuse, naming Golan in her account.