The Shelva band was invited and performed at an event of the Israeli Embassy in Portugal to mark the 76th Independence Day. The event was attended by over 500 guests, including politicians, elected officials, members of parliament, diplomats and the media. While there were pro-Palestinian demonstrations outside, the band’s performance brought with me a lot of pro-Israel support, and the crowd in the hall cheered, sang and danced with the band.Dor Shapira, Israel’s ambassador to Portugal in his speech: “We were very confused this year about how to celebrate Independence Day when our soldiers are fighting and the 128 abducted are still in Gaza, and we decided, especially in light of all the demonstrations, that we are obliged to celebrate the Israeli spirit abroad. Therefore, we had the honor of hosting the Shelva band, who are the best example. Even in difficult times, we must be proud and remember that we do not have another country, and we will continue to do everything to protect it, and to work with all our might to bring the abductees home.”
The Shlava Band: “We are happy to represent the State of Israel anywhere in the world, even under protests, pressures and threats. The Shlava Band is here to spread light and love, and to show the beautiful side of Israel. We continue to pray for the Shabbat of the abducted and are proud to be part of the international outreach that we so need, with Israel alive!
Music is our language and we want to spread it to the whole world.’