Iceland's anti-Israel Eurovision band to land in country on Sunday

Hatari have also challenged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to a wrestling match.

APRIL 14, 2019 10:48

Hatari, the Icelandic band to perform in Tel-Aviv. Members are: Klemens Nikulásson Hannigan, Matthías Tryggvi Haraldsson and Einar Hrafn Stefánsson. (photo credit: Courtesy) — Hatari, the Icelandic band to perform in Tel-Aviv. Members are: Klemens Nikulásson Hannigan, Matthías Tryggvi Haraldsson and Einar Hrafn Stefánsson.

(photo credit: Courtesy)

Iceland's Eurovision representative, Hatari, who challenged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to a wrestling match, is scheduled to arrive in Israel on Sunday.

The controversial music group are a BDSM (bondage, discipline, sadism and masochism) techno-punk band/performance art group, who won Iceland’s Söngvakeppnin national selection competition last month, and will represent the country this year at the Eurovision Song Contest.

The band will be performing “Hatrio Mun Sigra” (“Hate Will Prevail”). The three-man group has raised eyebrows with its bondage-inspired attire, angry lyrics and outspoken political agenda.

Hatari claim the band’s aim is to bring an end to capitalism. They have heavily criticized Israel in the past, and several months ago challenged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to a traditional Icelandic wrestling match.

They have also said they plan to use their performance to criticize Israel and has stated that it is a country that "violates human rights."

However, according to reports, the Eurovision Song Contest Commissioner warned the European Broadcasting Union that political protest during the concert was forbidden according to procedures.

In an interview with Swedish newspaper Stundin, Hatari seemed to think that being disqualified – and canceling Iceland’s participation in this year’s Eurovision – would be the ideal outcome.

“Perhaps we will be kicked out of the competition, but that would be just as revealing as anything we could do on stage,” band members said. “If Iceland is kicked out of the contest – that is fine by us.”

They are expected to perform in the second semi-final on May 16, if they haven't been disqualified by then.

Amy Spiro contributed to this report.