Traduza\\ OZZY OSBOURNE Arrives In Israel, Dismisses Talk Of Artistic Boycotts

According to The Jerusalem Post, Ozzy Osbourne arrived in Israel on Sunday, ahead of Tuesday's (September 28) Ozzfest concert in Tel Aviv's Hayarkon Park. Earlier today, he held a press conference at Tel Aviv's Sheraton Hotel where he was asked why he hadn't come to Israel before. Osbourne replied, "No reason, really. I mean, I was drunk for too many years." Ozzy also dismissed any talk of artistic boycotts of Israel, saying "I have no time for politics, they [politicians] don't understand me and I don't understand them."

Osbourne's wife/manager Sharon drew a parallel to "the troubles" in Northern Ireland that plagued England in past decades, saying "it's the same as when we had all the problems with the IRA and no one refused to perform in England, so I don't know why people don't come here."

According to Ynet, the Israeli edition of Ozzy's travelling festival, Ozzfest, is reportedly costing nearly $2 million to put on. Ticket prices were originally 325 Israel New Shekels (around $84), and were subsequently raised to 425 Israel New Shekels (around $110). VIP packages — including an actual seat, T-shirt and luxury accommodations — are costing 1,100 Israel New Shekels (around $283).