'I would say to anyone, come here': Boy George tells i24NEWS praising Israel

British pop icon Boy George was at a United Hatzalah ceremony in Tel Aviv on Sunday, where a new emergency response motorcycle was dedicated, known as an ambucycle, in his honor.

Boy George met with United Hatzalah founder and president Eli Beer, as well as five volunteer emergency medics at the ceremony in Tel Aviv.

The new ambucycle is equipped with essential emergency medical equipment and will enable United Hatzalah volunteers to navigate traffic and reach patients quickly, often reaching the scene faster than an ambulance.

"Boy George has shown that compassion, friendship, and solidarity transcend borders, cultures, and backgrounds," Eli Beer said.

"These are values we share at United Hatzalah. Our volunteers come from all walks of life, but when an emergency occurs, our differences don't matter. What matters is being there for someone who needs help."

Speaking to i24NEWS during the ceremony, Boy George reflected on his first visit to Israel since the October 7 massacre, saying he was surprised by how relaxed the country felt despite the hostility directed toward it internationally.

"I would say to anyone, come here," he said. "If you really, really have an issue with this place, the best thing you can do is come here because it's very different to what you think."

Boy George also addressed the backlash he has faced over his vocal support for Israel, including fans boycotting his performances.

"Sometimes love affairs don't last forever," he said, reflecting on supporters who had turned against him. However, he welcomed the support he has received from Jewish communities, saying, "When people are boycotting my gigs now, they can be replaced by lovely Jewish fans." He added, "Please come, you know, support me and I will continue to support my Jewish friends as well."