Disturbed’s scheduled show at Forest National in Brussels, Belgium on October 15, 2025 has been officially canceled by municipal authorities following a police order. Local leaders cited potential security risks tied to frontman David Draiman’s outspoken support for Israel and concerns about possible protests.
According to Belgian publication De Standaard, Forest’s mayor Charles Spapens invoked police advice to ban the show, stating that the concert had become controversial due to Draiman’s public political stance. Spapens told The Brussels Times, “My responsibility and priority are the safety of residents, demonstrators, spectators and staff … Given the police’s negative advice … it was my duty to take this decision.”
The controversy stems from a 2024 incident in which Draiman visited an Israeli Defense Forces base and signed a shell inscribed with “F*** Hamas,” a gesture that drew intense reaction globally. Belg ian officials have pointed to that act when assessing the risk of public unrest at his appearance.
Disturbed responded via social media, issuing a statement that read in part:
“Music is where all our differences fade into the background. … 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 … You don’t need to take any further action.”
The cancellation comes as Disturbed is touring Europe in celebration of the 25th anniversary of their debut album The Sickness, with Megadeth as their touring partner. The Brussels date was among the list of stops, but local authorities’ decision has left that night off the schedule.
Ticket sites reportedly still showed the Brussels date listed (before the ban), but fans who purchased tickets will receive automatic refunds.
This cancellation is not the first of its kind in Europe when artists’ political views intersect with local sensitivities. For Disturbed and Draiman, the move underscores the growing tension between music, identity, and public safety.
