Dave Matthews slams Netanyahu's US visit

Musician condemns Netanyahu's visit to the US, criticising Israel's actions in Palestine and calling for a ceasefire.

Musician Dave Matthews has voiced his discontent with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the White House on Wednesday.

Netanyahu delivered a speech to the US Congress regarding Israel’s ongoing war in Palestine, which sparked widespread protests across the United States, including from Matthews.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Matthews condemned the visit, stating, “It’s a disgusting show of support for someone who doesn’t deserve our support. I’m ashamed that my tax dollars are going to the brutalising of an entire people.” Matthews, who has long been vocal about his support for Palestine, has paused several of his recent concerts to call for an immediate ceasefire.

Musician Dave Matthews protesting against Netanyahus visit: "I'm ashamed that my tax dollars are going to the brutalising of an entire people" pic.twitter.com/g6wMwOnAHv

— Saul Staniforth (@SaulStaniforth) July 25, 2024

Netanyahu’s speech included a declaration that Israel would "finish the job" in Gaza, a statement that Matthews criticised as contributing to the ongoing brutality. He argues that it is Netanyahu, not Hamas, preventing Palestinians from achieving independence.