Brussels concert American metal band banned due to risks concerning pro-Israeli frontman
The mayor of the Brussels municipality of Forest, Charles Spapens, has issued a police order banning a concert by the American metal band Disturbed, scheduled for 15 October at the Forest National venue. He fears that major problems for public safetys could arise. The band's frontman, David Draiman, is an ardent supporter of the Israeli army.
The authorities fear that the concert, which is taking place in the middle of a residential area, could lead to counter-demonstrations or protests that could escalate.
According to the police's risk analysis, the presence of singer David Draiman, a fervent supporter of the Israeli army, could cause considerable tension. In June, he posted a photo of himself signing an artillery shell at an Israeli military base near Gaza, with the caption “Fuck Hamas”. This gesture caused a wave of outrage, particularly among pro-Palestinian groups active in Brussels.
“My priority and responsibility is the safety of residents, demonstrators, spectators and the staff of Forest National,” stated the mayor of Forest. “Given the unfavourable opinion of the police and the unique geographical location of the venue, it was my duty to take this decision.”
Tense security context
Moreover, the decision comes in a tense security context, with a national strike planned for 14 October in Brussels and a prison staff strike, for which significant police forces will already be mobilised.
The mayor of Saint-Gilles, Jean Spinette, recently warned of the ongoing overload of the Brussels South police zone – for Anderlecht, Saint-Gilles and Forest – due to demonstrations, strikes, etc. He called for solutions so that they can once again focus on their primary tasks.
The concert was in honour of the 25th anniversary of the album “The Sickness”. Live Nation, the organiser of the event, has not yet responded to the announcement of the ban.
Singer David Draiman of American metal band Disturbed © PHOTO Ethan Miller/Getty Images/AFP
Related news
