Controversy Erupts as Two Israelis Detained at Tomorrowland Festival

Two Israelis faced temporary detention after pro-Palestinian groups accused them of displaying the Givati Brigade flag at Tomorrowland. The incident has sparked reactions from various organizations, reflecting the ongoing conflict's impact on cultural events.

Belgian police have questioned two Israeli nationals following claims from two pro-Palestinian organizations that they displayed flags from their army brigade during the Tomorrowland music festival. The pair were briefly detained and subsequently released after being interviewed by prosecutors who are currently investigating the allegations.

The Hind Rajab Foundation and the Global Legal Action Network filed a complaint after witnessing a group of young Israelis displaying the purple-and-white flag of the Givati Brigade at the festival, suggesting the individuals had committed war crimes in Gaza. This flag was notably seen at a performance by the Israeli DJ duo Vini Vici during the festival on Friday.

Prosecutors have stated that they will not provide further details on the case at this time, while the Hind Rajab Foundation labeled the arrest of the two Israelis as a "significant step forward." It is reported that they are not being prevented from leaving Belgium.

The BBC reached out to the Israeli embassy in Brussels for comments, yet officials only confirmed the release of the detained individuals without further elaboration.

Before detaining the men, prosecutors had opted to pursue the case under Belgium's universal jurisdiction law. This law allows local courts to address crimes allegedly committed beyond Belgium's borders, a framework that was recently updated to enable police to collect evidence concerning violations.

The European Jewish Association expressed serious concern over the way the Belgian authorities handled the situation, stating, “These soldiers were carrying out their lawful duties in defense of their country, comparable to any soldier serving in a democratic nation.”

The Hind Rajab Foundation is chaired by Dyab Abou Jahjah, a polarizing Belgian-Lebanese activist with self-admitted ties to Hezbollah, an organization classified as a terrorist entity in the EU.

Despite the tensions, Tomorrowland proceeded with its events even after a fire devastated the main stage just two days prior, drawing tens of thousands to enjoy acts including David Guetta and Lost Frequencies amidst the controversies surrounding the ongoing conflict in Gaza.