Palestinian music band protests Israeli Security Forces with an impromptu concert

A group of Palestinian musicians yesterday performed their songs and music in front of the Erez crossing after Israeli occupation forces prevented them from travelling to Jerusalem.

Dawaween, a group of musicians and singers from across the Gaza Strip, were refused the necessary travel permits in order to travel to Jerusalem to participate the Palestine International Festival for Dance and Music.

In response to the decision they setup a musical protest at the Erez crossing. Israel listed “security concerns” as the reason for denying the band their travel documents; however the musicians insist their only tools are their lute, drum and other such instruments.

“This is one of the faces of suffering that the Palestinians endure in the Gaza Strip due to the tight Israeli blockade,” band member Ali Al-Hindi said. “This is the Israeli policy regarding every single aspect of life in Gaza.”

The siege and blockade has infused every aspect of life in the Gaza Strip, including its music scene. Dawaween was formed in late 2015 to perform across the region, aiming to keep traditional Palestinian music alive. The 13-member band is made up of ten musicians and three singers.

Images by MEMO Photographer Mohammed Asad and Anadolu Agency.