Even at 60 Madonna still finds ways to court controversy – even inadvertently.

In news that comes as little surprise, officials have finally confirmed the longstanding rumor the Pop Queen is set to headline this weekend’s Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel.  Reportedly giving some cuts from her June 14-due album, ‘Madame X,’ their first live treatments, photos have been surfacing over the past few weeks of the diva hard-at-work rehearsing for the gig.

But, while the official announcement (seen below) didn’t arrive until today, it was preceded by calls from the singer’s fans (among others) to boycott the show.  Look inside to read her response to the hoopla:

As pro-Palestinian activists continue to pressure companies, performers, and more to disengage from Israel, Madge took to Reuters earlier this week to respond to the controversy surrounding her participation:

 “I’ll never stop playing music to suit someone’s political agenda nor will I stop speaking out against violations of human rights wherever in the world they may be,” she said. “My heart breaks every time I hear about the innocent lives that are lost in this region and the violence that is so often perpetuated to suit the political goals of people who benefit from this ancient conflict,” she continued. “I hope and pray that we will soon break free from this terrible cycle of destruction and create a new path towards peace.”

It’s been confirmed the singer will perform her new, Quavo-assisted single ‘Future,’ ‘Madame X’ cut ‘Dark Ballet,’ and possibly iconic hit ‘Like A Prayer.’

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