“It really is about two human beings that have been through hell.”
Avenged Sevenfold frontman M. Shadows has defended his recent decision to record a personal video message to two Israeli hostages freed by Hamas, calling it a gesture of “pure humanity, not politics.”
In a post that’s already kicked off a firestorm online, Shadows said the message was intended to offer “support and compassion to two people who’ve survived unimaginable trauma,” insisting it wasn’t a political statement.
“It really is about two human beings that have been through hell,” he explained. “If anyone sees something deeper than that, that’s on them. I’ve always believed in empathy first.”
The singer’s statement comes as musicians around the world remain fiercely divided over the ongoing Israel–Palestine conflict, especially after Disturbed’s David Draiman came under fire for signing an Israeli Defense Forces artillery shell during a visit to a military base last year.
Despite the backlash, Shadows voiced “respect” for Draiman — while acknowledging their approaches differ:
“I respect David as a person and as an artist. He’s passionate and he stands for what he believes in. I might not do things the same way, but I’ll never attack another musician for trying to do good in their own way.”
🎸 Avenged Sevenfold have long been outspoken about empathy, freedom of expression, and mental health awareness, but Shadows’ remarks have stirred up fierce debate — with some fans praising his humanity, and others accusing him of ignoring the wider political implications.
As one fan on Reddit put it: “It’s tough when compassion gets caught in the crossfire of politics. Shadows meant well, but everything’s a landmine right now.”
Whether you agree with him or not, M. Shadows’ message is a rare call for empathy in a world that’s feeling more divided than ever. ❤️🔥
