U2 Criticizes Gaza Blockade, Calls for Two-State Solution

Irish rock band U2 issued a joint statement and individual messages criticizing both Hamas and the Israeli government over the Gaza conflict, calling the situation 'uncharted territory' amid a blockade of humanitarian aid and military actions in Gaza City. Bono condemned the October 7 Hamas attacks as 'evil' but described Israel's response as 'disproportionate' and accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government of using starvation as a weapon against Palestinians. The band emphasized that Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people, who have long faced oppression and occupation, and called for an immediate end to violence on both sides. U2 also highlighted the suffering of Israeli hostages and advocated for coexistence and a two-state solution. The band pledged donations to Medical Aid for Palestinians and referenced their own history of activism against oppression. While acknowledging their lack of political expertise, they said the severity of the humanitarian crisis compelled them to speak out.