DISTURBED has had its upcoming concert in Brussels canceled by local authorities over security fears stemming from frontman David Draiman’s vocal support for the Israeli military, Belga News Agency reports. The show, scheduled for October 15 at the Forest National venue, was banned by a police order issued by the mayor of the Brussels municipality of Forest, Charles Spapens.
Mayor Spapens stated that his primary concern was the safety of residents, staff, and potential demonstrators, citing an unfavorable police risk analysis. “Given the unfavourable opinion of the police and the unique geographical location of the venue, it was my duty to take this decision,” he stated.
The core of the security threat centers on David Draiman, a longtime ardent supporter of the Israeli army. Authorities fear his presence could cause considerable tension and lead to counter-demonstrations or protests that could escalate into public safety issues, particularly because the venue is located in a residential area.
The controversy was ignited earlier this year after Draiman posted a photo in June 2024 from an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) base near Gaza. The image, which quickly circulated across social media, showed him signing an artillery shell with the caption “F**k Hamas.”
This gesture caused a significant wave of outrage, particularly among pro-Palestinian groups active in Brussels. The controversy resurfaced recently following a heated online spat between Draiman and the Irish pro-Palestinian rap collective KNEECAP, and after Draiman was booed during an appearance at a BLACK SABBATH farewell show in Birmingham.
The police risk analysis concluded that the current geopolitical climate and the high-profile nature of Draiman’s pro-IDF stance pose an unacceptable risk of escalating public safety problems in the area around the concert. The subsequent police order from Mayor Spapens resulted in the immediate cancellation of the event.
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