Thom Yorke has released an extensive statement expressing his views on the situation in Israel and Gaza.
The Radiohead lead singer has faced criticism online, and during a solo performance in Australia earlier this year, he interacted with a fan who accused him of remaining silent about the issue.
Radiohead has performed in Israel before, despite a BDS call for a cultural boycott, and band member Jonny Greenwood recently canceled UK shows, citing a “credible threat” to the safety of the musicians and crew.
In his statement posted on Instagram and Bluesky, Thom Yorke began by addressing the incident in Australia. “Some guy yelling at me from the dark last year while I was about to sing the final song in front of 9000 people in Melbourne didn’t seem like the ideal moment to discuss the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza,” he stated. “Afterward, I was shocked that my alleged silence was interpreted as complicity, and I struggled to find an appropriate way to respond and continue with the rest of the tour.”
Thom Yorke reaffirmed his opposition to Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his administration, which he had previously condemned during Radiohead’s shows in Israel in 2017.
“I believe Netanyahu and his group of extremists are completely out of control and need to be stopped, and the international community should exert as much pressure on them as possible to halt their actions,” he remarked. “Their claims of self-defense have long been exhausted and have been replaced by a clear aim to permanently control Gaza and the West Bank.”
Thom Yorke also criticized Hamas, describing the events of October 7th as “horrific.” He questioned, “Why did Hamas resort to the truly horrific acts of October 7th? The answer seems clear, and I believe Hamas also chooses to exploit the suffering of its people for their own cynical ends.”
In another part of his statement, he expressed, “If our world is ever to move past these dark times and achieve peace, it will only be when we rediscover our commonalities, and the extremists are sent back into the darkness from which they emerged.”
He concluded: “I am certain that what I have written here will not satisfy those who seek to target me or those I work with; they will spend their time finding flaws and reasons to continue, as we present an opportunity not to be overlooked, no matter which side.”
“I have penned this in the hope of joining the countless others praying for an end to this suffering, isolation, and death, praying that we can collectively reclaim our humanity, dignity, and our capacity for understanding… that soon this darkness will have passed.”
The first time I listened to "Caroline," I took notice. The music was magnificent, showcasing a soaring melody, intricate guitar work, and amazing harmonies, but what
Filled with curiosity, color, and emotion, Spring Term’s 'Kiddo, Vol. 2' EP is a bright, wonder-infused indie pop dream – a lively, heartfelt, and sonically impressive extension of his coming-of-age narrative that welcomes life’s chaos with a grin, reflecting the pain, wonder, and excitement of growing up across four memorable tracks.
The Featured Artists Coalition (FAC) has partnered with WeAre8 to promote a healthier and more positive digital environment for both artists and fans. The FAC is based in the UK.
Originating from Australia and currently residing in London, you might have heard of BRIT-nominated Sonny Fodera and his rhythm-infused house explorations. As a highly active DJ, Fodera
Entering with confidence to the harsh sounds of The Waterboys’ 'Don’t Bang The Drum', a shift from their earlier entrance theme of Beck’s ‘Loser’,
British-Canadian artist Rochelle Jordan begins her new chapter with the release of her latest single, 'Crave,’ available through EMPIRE. The track was produced in collaboration with Chicago house.
Thom Yorke has released an extensive statement expressing his views on Israel and Gaza. The Radiohead lead singer has faced criticism on social media, and a solo performance in