Founder of London Venue E1 Resigns as Director Amid his Support of Israel in Gaza

London Venue E1 Founder, Yuval Hen, has resigned as director after his support for Israel in Gaza has become public.

The founder and director of E1, a popular electronic music venue in London, has recently resigned from his position. Yuval Hen, who founded London venue E1, has resigned from his role as director. This news has come to light with the discovery of his support in the Israeli Defence Force during the Gaza conflict. 

On February 15th, an Instagram page called “Ravers For Palestine” shared the news. It contained a screenshot of a Facebook post that has now been deleted. The account, with over 8,000 ravers, brings together ravers from around the globe. They come together in support of Palestine during this crucial time in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. Recently, they shared a glimpse of something alarming to London eventgoers. A post which contained pictures of Yuval Hen, E1 founder, wearing an IDF uniform. But also, a caption suggesting his return home after spending four months in Gaza.

Certainly, this discovery caused anger and disappointment in many. There was an immediate backlash from many in London after the incident which led to a boycott of the music venue. “Ravers for Palestine” states “The owner and founder of popular London venue E1 has allegedly been serving with the IOF in their invasion of Gaza. We urge all ravers and DJs to boycott E1 until further notice. There can be no place in our culture for actors and venues engaged in genocide. No one wants to lose another rave venue in London. But there can be no place in our culture for actors engaged in colonial violence. Especially those in places of power and ownership.”

After the boycott, Yuval Hen resigned as the director of E1. He resigned from this position along with his other music businesses, “E1 Records Limited” and “Studio Spaces Limited”. It is currently unclear who will take over the ownership, but it is definite that Yuval Hen’s role as director at E1 has come to an end. He will not be returning to the London club from February 16th onwards.

After the resignation, E1 has reassured future club-goers that they will still offer a secure environment for people to enjoy East London’s club culture. Although the venue’s future plans are currently unknown, we hope to bring some positivity and look forward to a brighter future for E1.