‘Israeli’ comedian/soldier banned from performing in California over Gaza

• Guy Hochman's show at the Fine Arts Theatre in Beverly Hills was canceled after he refused a venue demand to denounce the "genocide, rape, and starvation" in Gaza. The theater's president later apologized and backtracked on the decision following accusations of antisemitism.
• About a week prior, Hochman was detained for six hours at Toronto International Airport after the Hind Rajab Foundation filed a complaint accusing him of inciting war crimes and genocide. The complaint cited his social media content, which dehumanized Palestinians and showed him involved in the destruction of civilian infrastructure while in military uniform.

‘Israeli’ stand-up comedian (and soldier) Guy Hochman faced cancellation of his scheduled performance at the Fine Arts Theatre in Beverly Hills, California, after declining to issue a statement denouncing the genocide caused by the ‘Israeli’ assault on the Gaza Strip.

The incident occurred earlier this week when venue management required Hochman to condemn what they described as "genocide, rape, starvation, and torture" committed by ‘Israeli’ forces.

Hochman, a former soldier who partook in the assault on Gaza, refused the demand, leading to the cancellation of his show.

The cancellation followed pressure from pro-Palestinian groups, who protested outside the venue and physically blocked access for audience members.

The Fine Arts Theatre, a historic screening space, initially justified the decision by citing the need for artists to align with certain ethical stances.

Hochman publicly responded to the incident, emphasizing his loyalty to ‘Israel’ and rejecting the accusations as unfounded.

In a statement, he said, "I prefer my people above my career. And I will never say untrue things about my people, say we rape and starve and commit genocide."

The venue's president later issued an apology on Saturday, saying the cancellation was an error and backtracking on his initial stance.

The reversal came amid accusations of antisemitism from Jewish organizations and supporters of Hochman.

Detained in Canada

Hochman was detained about a week ago for six hours at Toronto International Airport following a complaint alleging war crimes related to his military service.

The complaint, filed by the Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF) and supported by Canadian Lawyers for International Human Rights, stemmed from Hochman's social media activity and his role in the ‘Israeli’ assault on Gaza.

Hochman produced videos and content while in uniform, where he promoted violence and destruction of Gaza and Palestinians.

The HRF's claims against Hochman are detailed in a comprehensive investigative report, accusing him of inciting war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocidal acts through his public statements.

Evidence includes social media posts dehumanizing Palestinians, calling for unrestricted revenge, advocating mass killings, destruction of infrastructure, and blocking humanitarian aid.

Specific examples cite Hochman's endorsements of nuclear strikes and praising military units implicated in abuses.

The foundation also raised concerns over footage potentially linking him to the demolition of a mosque in Rafah.