Metal Opportunists

Israeli-Palestinian peace is still is a long way's away. Obama - maybe it's time to return that Nobel Peace Prize. Or perhaps it's time they gave away a Nobel Peace Prize for music. If they did, the nominees would totally have to be an Israeli band Orphaned Land and a Palestinian group named Khalas.

Together, these bands are trying to make the statement that they believe that music is above politics, religion and conflict and are setting out on a mission to do just that. The groups have their aim set on creating a “Metal brotherhood” and are demonstrating that religious and political tolerance is possible between both sides, especially when it comes to the love of Metal.

The two bands have put together an 18-gig tour across Europe, where they will both be sharing the stage, as well as a tour bus for three weeks. “We can't change the world, but we can give an example of how coexistence is possible. Sharing a stage and sharing a bus is stronger than a thousands words.” says Kobi Farhi of Orphaned Lands.

Not to be left out Abed Hathut, of Khalas, spoke to The Guardian saying that “We are Metal brothers before everything...” adding that “ Just because we are Palestinians, people expect us to sing only about the occupation.”

Sounds like a great initiative, but I don't think that Europe or the world have a problem with peace between the nations. Also, I don't think that they need to be reminded that there is still an occupation. They are very much aware and just about every famous politician has tried to create a peace deal or a process to end the conflict. The real obstacle towards peace is Israel continuing expansion into Palestinian territory. If you really wanted to get people to thinking about the issue then you would focus your time performing 18 gigs in both Israel and occupied Palestine. They are really the ones that need an opinion fix. If Khalas is accepted and enjoyed by Israelis and Orphaned Land is loved and accepted by Palestinians, then take that accomplishment to Europe.

It seems to me this is a publicity stunt. No one really cares to see an Israeli Metal band touring, so what better way to get people to watch your band than to have a Palestinian Metal band tag along? As for Khalas, if you are a proper Metal band then, yes, the people want to hear you sing about occupation, and I am sure there is a lot of anger to be expressed that could wake people up. Calling yourselves Metal brothers is disgusting, when there's so many other things that need to be reconciled first. More like Metal opportunists. I recommend that, before you give any more quotes on your silly European tour, you consider that you are Palestinians first and should be proud of it.