As Egypt prepares to welcome the legendary German rock band Scorpions this October, many fans and activists are raising critical questions: Should Egypt host a band with a long history of performing in and supporting Israel? Is their repeated presence in Israel a personal choice — or are they pressured by political or financial entities?
The upcoming concert, part of their Love at First Sting world tour, is being met with growing backlash in light of the band’s controversial history in the region. While rock music can be a powerful force for unity, it can also be a vehicle for normalization — especially when used to gloss over ongoing human rights violations. In the case of the Scorpions, many argue that their legacy in the Middle East cannot be separated from the political implications of their performances in Israel.
Scorpions’ Repeated Engagements with Israel
Scorpions have performed in Israel numerous times over the past decades, often without publicly acknowledging the apartheid and occupation realities Palestinians endure. Here are some of the notable instances:
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July 2018 – Performed at Live Park, Rishon LeZion.
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October 2016 – Headlined a concert at Menora Mivtachim Arena, Tel Aviv.
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July 2005 – Played in Tel Aviv during their world tour.
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1995 – Among the first major Western rock bands to perform in Israel post-Oslo Accords.
Their concerts were often promoted as “peaceful” musical gatherings, yet the silence of the band regarding Israel’s aggressive military campaigns and occupation raises questions about where they stand.
Are Scorpions Forced to Perform in Israel?
One of the key debates surrounding international acts performing in Israel is whether they are pressured — by governments, promoters, or record labels — to perform as a way of legitimizing the state. While no clear public statement from Scorpions confirms external pressure, their repeated tours in Israel despite widespread calls for cultural boycotts suggest a willing alignment or apathy toward the political ramifications.
Several international artists — including Roger Waters, Lorde, and Brian Eno — have canceled or refused to perform in Israel as part of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, recognizing the role of art in shaping public narratives. In contrast, Scorpions have never issued a statement regarding the Palestinian plight or expressed solidarity with victims of occupation and war.
⇒ [Check full list of artists and bands boycotting Israel] ⇐
Why Egypt Should Not Be the Next Stage
Hosting the Scorpions in Cairo is not just another concert — it is an act of normalization, especially during a time when the Gaza Strip and West Bank are enduring relentless assaults. It also contradicts Egypt’s long-standing historical position of supporting the Palestinian cause.
In a country where public opinion largely favors resistance to occupation and injustice, allowing Scorpions to perform unchallenged sends a conflicting message to both citizens and the international community.
Instead of welcoming artists who normalize apartheid through entertainment, Egypt should be promoting voices of justice, resistance, and cultural integrity.
Music has always been a tool for political influence — whether for liberation or oppression. The choice to host Scorpions in Egypt in 2025 is not neutral. It is time for artists to be held accountable for where they choose to stand in times of war and injustice.
Egyptian citizens, fans, and cultural institutions should say no to Scorpions’ concert. Let it be clear: we do not dance while others are being bombed.
