Talib Kweli, the African American rapper best known for his work in Black Star, a collaboration with fellow MC Mos Def, has announced that he will be cancelling his upcoming Israeli gig.

Kweli made the announcement in a string of Tweets via his official Twitter account. The online announcement came after engagements and discussions with fans, fellow artists as well as members of the Palestinian boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) against Israel movement. Talib Kweli tweeted on Wednesday, 02 July 2014:

“As much as I want to play Israel, I have decided not to in solidarity with Palestinians who will not have access to my show..."
(https://twitter.com/TalibKweli/status/484157171332960257)

"After days of discussions with many, I've decided to try & visit Israel & Palestine with those who fight to end the state of apartheid..."
(https://twitter.com/TalibKweli/status/484157612817010688)

"...rather than use my art to force the issue on those who would rather not deal with it..."
(https://twitter.com/TalibKweli/status/484157780257828864)

In 2005, Palestinian civil society called for an international boycott of Israel as a non-violent method to bring Israel in line with international law. The boycott has been modeled on the successful boycott of Apartheid South Africa and has an increasing number of progressive Israelis who also back the campaign.

Since the Palestinian call for a boycott against Israel was issued in 2005 several high profile artists, musicians and authors have cancelled Israeli performances and engagements including Stevie Wonder, Danny Glover, Roger Waters of Pink Floyd, Alice Walker, Stephen Hawking, Mira Nair and the music band Faithless.

Kwara Kekana of BDS South Africa welcomed Talib Kewli's decision to boycott Israel: "Talib Kweli has done the right thing by not crossing the boycott of Israel picket line. As South Africans that once benefited from international support and boycotts we know the importance of international solidarity. Salute from South Africa to Talib Kweli.”