Battle Looms Over Credit for Anti-Israel Lyrics
- Share via
From Times Wire Reports
A row has erupted in Egypt over who came up with the anti-Israel lyrics that made an overnight singing sensation of a working-class crooner. Released after the Palestinian uprising began, “I Hate Israel” elevated little-known singer Shaaban Abdel-Rahim to superstardom.
The refrain “I hate Israel and I love AmrMoussa”--a reference to Egypt’s pro-Palestinian foreign minister--became an instant hit. Poet Awad Badawi says he thought up the phrase and intends to take legal action. A spokesman for Abdel-Rahim denied the claim.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
