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Turkish-Israeli singer Linet Menashe was forced to abandon her scheduled performance in Istanbul's Maslak district Thursday night after protesters gathered outside the venue demanding cancellation of her concert.
"I have no safety here," a tearful Menashe said in a video posted from backstage as protesters chanted outside. "I am a Turkish citizen, an artist. Until today, I have only existed through my voice."
The incident comes amid escalating tensions following the cancellation of two concerts by Israeli singer Yasmin Levy in Türkiye, highlighting a growing pattern of hostility toward Israeli-affiliated performers against the backdrop of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Menashe's ordeal represents the latest in what appears to be mounting pressure against artists with Israeli connections performing in Türkiye.
Police deployed substantial riot units to the Maslak Yeni Gazino venue as protesters gathered in increasing numbers. The demonstrators voiced their opposition through various chants, including "Killer Linet, get out of Türkiye."
Security forces established a protective perimeter, working diligently to prevent demonstrators from breaching the venue as tensions escalated throughout the evening. Several confrontations occurred between protesters and police as authorities attempted to maintain order.
In her emotional video appeal filmed from inside her dressing room, where protest chants could be heard in the background, Menashe directly addressed Türkiye's leadership: "Mr. President, Mrs. Emine Erdogan, please support me. Please let this persecution end."
The visibly distressed singer continued with a broader appeal to the public: "I'm addressing all of Türkiye. I'm addressing everyone who knows and loves me. Until today, I have only existed through my voice, and that's how it will continue. Please, I beg you, don't leave me alone in this cause."
According to reports from journalist Birsen Altuntas, the management at Maslak Yeni Gazino ultimately made the decision to cancel the concert due to security concerns.
With protesters blocking the main entrance, Menashe was escorted by security personnel through the venue's back exit to ensure her safety as she departed.
This incident marks the second time Menashe has faced concert cancellations in recent months.
Her previous scheduled performance in Ankara was reportedly canceled due to controversy surrounding anti-Hamas posts she had shared on social media platforms.
The situation mirrors the experience of Israeli singer Yasmin Levy, who similarly faced protests leading to the cancellation of two planned performances in Türkiye.
These incidents appear to reflect heightened sensitivities surrounding the ongoing conflict in Gaza and changing public sentiment toward artists with Israeli connections.
As of publication, the management of the Maslak venue has not released an official statement regarding the incident.
Police maintained a significant presence throughout the evening, with security measures continuing well after Menashe's departure to ensure public order.
The cancellation has sparked discussions across Türkiye regarding the intersection of art, politics, and public safety, with supporters of Menashe expressing concern about her treatment as a Turkish citizen despite her Israeli heritage.
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