Israel's ambassador asks Lorde for meeting after singer cancels concert

Israeli ambassador to New Zealand Itzhak Gerberg on Tuesday night extended an invitation to the 21-year-old musician on Twitter.

Gerberg claimed Lorde had "succumbed to the supporters of a small fanatic group" that "spreads hatred and animosity”.

"Your concert in Israel could have spread the message that solutions come from constructive engagement that leads to compromise and cooperation," he added, claiming Lorde had disappointed Israel.

"Music should unite not divide and your performance in Israel could have contributed to the spirit of hope and peace in the Middle East." 

The nonviolent BDS movement says it is inspired by the campaign that targeted South Africa's apartheid regime and is seeking an end to Israel's brutal occupation of the West Bank.

Israel sees BDS as a strategic threat and accuses it of anti-Semitism – a claim activists firmly deny, calling it an attempt to discredit them.

But the movement, which adheres to peaceful resistance, aims to pressure Israel to adhere to international law and human rights by lobbying various states, institutions and personas to understand its oppression of Palestinians and take action as a result.

BDS operates by pressuring corporations, artists and academic institutions to sever ties with Israel with supporters saying activities are aimed at promoting a Palestinian statehood.