Radiohead guitarist Jonny Greenwood and Israeli musician Dudu Tassa have been announced as the opening performers for the upcoming Jerusalem Oud Festival. The event, which celebrates Middle Eastern musical traditions, will feature the duo as they continue their ongoing creative collaboration.

Greenwood’s participation in Israeli cultural events has historically drawn scrutiny. In previous years, the musician has been the target of pressure from the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which advocates for cultural boycotts of Israel in response to its policies regarding Palestinians. Despite this, Greenwood has maintained his professional relationship with Tassa and his willingness to perform in the region.

The announcement highlights the intersection of international music and regional politics. While the festival focuses on the oud—a traditional stringed instrument central to Middle Eastern music—the involvement of a high-profile Western artist like Greenwood ensures that the event receives broader international attention. The Times of Israel reports that this performance is a notable "first" for the festival, though the publication emphasizes the political context surrounding Greenwood’s return to the country.