Siblings of Hamas-Geiseln ask ESC winners JJ for a conversation-Diepresse.com
After JJ spoke out for an exclusion of Israel at the next Eurovision Song Contest, members of two Hamas Geiseln invite the singer to a dialogue and call him by video: « Don’t hide yourself »
Shortly after his victory at the Eurovision Song Contest, the Austrian singer JJ caused a sensation with a statement. « I would like the Eurovision Song Contest take place in Vienna next year, without Israel, » the Spanish newspaper « El País » quoted the 24-year-old. Now the siblings of the Hamas-Geiseln Evyatar David and Guy Gilboa-Dalal are turning to the musician with a letter and a video message.
In the letter, which was sent on May 22, 2025, the four siblings write that they will be in Vienna this week to draw attention to the hostage situation. On this occasion, they ask JJ to have a personal exchange: « We are aware of their public statements to participate in Israel in the Eurovision, but we believe that everyone who speaks publicly about this conflict should also be willing to hear directly from those who are personally affected. »
« Don’t hide »
Since the request has so far remained unanswered and the siblings fly back to Israel tomorrow, contact the artist again via video message. « Dear JJ, I’m not sure if you knew what to talk about. Music should bring people together instead of splitting them, » says one of the relatives. « Don’t hide, let’s speak, » add the others.
The video was spread on X by Daniel Kapp, who volunteered for Israeli hostages and their relatives. So far, JJ has not responded to the invitation.
After the singer was criticized for his statement on Israel on social media and politicians, he rowed back: « I am sorry if my words have been misunderstood. Although I criticize the Israeli government, I condemn any form of violence against civilians all over the world – be it against Israelis or Palestinians. I will not comment on this topic. » After the statement, he went to the diving station. (Red.)
