Islamic Preacher Threatens Sir Paul

World | Sun, Sep 14, 2008 at 9:00:07 pm PDT

Omar Bakri, the radical Islamic cleric expelled from Britain who now resides comfortably in Lebanon, has threatened to kill Paul McCartney if he plays a show in Israel.

Omar Bakri, an Islamic preacher, said McCartney’s decision to perform as part of Israel’s 60th anniversary celebrations made him the enemy of Muslims worldwide.

“If he values his life, Mr. McCartney must not come to Israel,” Bakri was quoted as saying. “He will not be safe there. The sacrifice operatives will be waiting for him.”

Bakri added, “Instead of supporting the people of Palestine in their suffering, McCartney is celebrating the atrocities of the occupiers,” Bakri was quoted as saying. “The one who is under occupation is supposed to be getting the help.”

McCartney was also been pressured by pro-Palestinian groups to cancel the show, but has resisted. “I was approached by different groups and political bodies who asked me not to come here. I refused. I do what I think, and I have many friends who support Israel,” McCartney said in an interview with Yedioth Ahronoth.