Protests from Zionist groups lead to cancellation of Yulduz Usmonova’s Brooklyn show

The host venue, Oceana Theater, announced the decision on May 4 following a targeted campaign led by local politicians and members of the Zionist community.

The cancellation stems from a wave of opposition fueled by Usmonova’s outspoken criticism of Israel’s actions in Palestine. Critics have accused the singer of antisemitism due to her previous public statements and her 2023 call to boycott Israeli products. On May 4, a press conference was held featuring Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County Executive and a candidate for Governor of New York, alongside local legislators Michael Novakhov and Alec Brook–Krasny, as well as activists from the United Zionists society. The participants expressed their firm opposition to the concert, specifically noting the irony of hosting Usmonova on May 9 – a day commemorating the victory over Nazi Germany – while labeling her views as discriminatory.

During the conference, Bruce Blakeman revealed that he had sent an official letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio requesting the immediate revocation of the singer's entry visa to the United States.

In a video response posted to her Instagram account on May 5, Yulduz Usmonova addressed the situation, thanking her fans for purchasing every available ticket before the cancellation. Despite the political pressure, the singer emphasized that she remains firm in her convictions and refused to apologize for her past statements. “If you Zionist Jews think that I will apologize, you are completely mistaken,” she stated, reaffirming her support for Palestinian land rights and her stance against violence.

Usmonova further asserted that "the United States is not Israel, and it does not belong to the Zionists," adding that she would continue to perform "for humanity." While the Brooklyn event will not proceed, the singer expressed her belief that justice would eventually prevail.