![Mayor Bans Disturbed’s Belgium Show Over Safety Risks Surrounding David Draiman’s Support of Israel [Updated]](https://consequence.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/David-Draiman.jpg?quality=80)
Disturbed were set to play the venue Forest National in Brussels, Belgium, on October 15th as part of “The Sickness 25th Anniversary Tour,” but it now appears that show will not take place. A local mayor has ordered a ban on the show over safety concerns tied to frontman David Draiman’s support of Israel.
Charles Spapens, mayor of Forest, a municipality of Brussels, issued the following statement, per The Brussels Times: “My responsibility and priority are the safety of residents, neighbors, demonstrators, spectators and staff at Forest National. Given the police’s negative advice and the venue’s unique location, it was my duty to make this decision.”
His decision came after a police risk assessment warned that Draiman’s appearance could lead to violent demonstrations around the venue. It was also influenced by a national strike set to take place a day earlier in Brussels, as well as the anticipation of other demonstrations that may occur in the area.
On Monday, October 13th, Disturbed issued a statement confirming the show’s cancellation:
“Music is where all our differences fade into the background. Music has the power to heal, to inspire and to bring people together, it’s not about what divides us. We have always made it a point that at our shows ALL are welcome no matter what you believe. Everyone who comes to a Disturbed concert is accepted and loved. We are saddened that our fans in Belgium are not going to be able to share in this celebration of music.
Your tickets will be refunded automatically within 30 days to the payment card used at the time of purchase. You don’t need to take any further action.
We would like to thank you for your understanding, and we appreciate your support.”
Draiman, who is Jewish, has been an outspoken supporter of Israel for years, but it appears that it’s the photos of him signing Israel Defense Forces (IDF) missiles he tweeted in June 2024 with the hashtag “#FuckHamas” that raised the most concern for Mayor Spapens and local authorities.
Those photos came to light again earlier this year when Draiman engaged in a war of words with pro-Palestinian UK hip-hop band Kneecap.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated on October 13th with an official statement from Disturbed.
— Disturbed (@Disturbed) October 13, 2025
