Algeria postpones festivals in solidarity with Gaza

The Algerian government announced Friday the postponement of all artistic festivals in solidarity with Gaza, responding to political and public pressure.

In a statement, the Ministry of Culture and Arts decided to delay major summer festivals amid escalating Israeli Occupation crimes in Gaza. The ministry emphasized Algeria's steadfast support for the Palestinian cause and efforts led by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to support the oppressed Palestinian people.

Yousef Hamdan, Hamas representative in Algeria, praised the stance, aligning with the Algerian government's and people's support for Palestinian rights and resistance against Israeli Occupation crimes. He urged the nation to maintain focus and solidarity with Palestine.

A widespread boycott campaign successfully canceled a concert in Ouargla, southern Algeria, with the venue empty in protest against the event during the ongoing Israeli Occupation's war on Gaza, which has lasted over nine months.

Political and public calls for canceling a dance festival and other summer events in solidarity with Gaza preceded this. This marks the second suspension of cultural activities since the start of the Israeli Occupation war on Gaza following the Al-Aqsa Flood operation last October.

The Ministry of Culture encouraged intensifying cultural and intellectual activities supporting the Palestinian cause and promoting local cultures and national identity.