Brian May sparks row as he endorses video branding Israel 'vicious genocidal nation': 'Disappointed in you'

Brian May sparks row as he endorses video branding Israel 'vicious genocidal nation': 'Disappointed in you'

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Lauren Williams

By Lauren Williams


Published: 09/04/2024

- 11:13

The former Queen star has left his fans divided after publicly supporting Miriam Margolyes's Israel rant video

Brian May has left his fans divided after he reposted a video on his Instagram page which shows Harry Potter star Miriam Margolyes calling for a ceasefire in southern Gaza as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues.

Last night, the rock singer posted the video which was made for the official Jewish Council Instagram page and penned a lengthy caption alongside it.


Within the video, Margolyes accused Israel of "genocide" for its retaliation to the October 7 attacks by Hamas as in the months since, its response has claimed the lives of thousands of Palestinian civilians.

Margolyes ranted: “I am an Australian citizen, I am 83 and I have never been so ashamed of Israel as I am at this moment.

“To me, it seems as if Hitler has won. He’s changed us Jews from being compassionate and caring and do unto others as you would have do unto you into this vicious genocidal, nationalist union.

“Pursuing and killing women and children. Of course I condemn the Hamas action, of course I do! But what we are doing to Jewish people over in Israel is shocking, embarrassing and wicked.

“And I cannot understand why all Jewish people, particularly members of synagogues, do not want to immediately stop what is going on. And in the name of humanity I call upon all Jews to shout, beg, scream for a ceasefire.

“It is not anti-Semitic to have a different opinion on war time actions now.

"We have to do, as my mother would say, the right thing.”

The star went on to claim that a ceasefire was the “right thing” to do and called for everyone to call their Rabbis and communities to use their voice.

May captioned the repost: “My heart and my soul bend in profound respect for this courageous woman - Miriam Margolyes.

“Here she has eloquently spelled out what we all dared not say until now. Please join in supporting her and the Jewish Council of Australia by reposting this EVERYWHERE.

Brian May

Many fans weren't sure what to think about May reposting the video

GETTY

“It may open the door to an avalanche of world outrage which will change history and save countless innocent lives. Now we can speak out for decency if we dare. Thank You Miriam. Bri.”

The comments left many of his fans divided, with one noting: “Brian why didn't you denounce the unspeakable and horrific act of terrorism in its most barbaric way on Oct 7th? Why???

“As your lifelong supporter and admirer, I am hurt that it took you so long to make any comment or acknowledgement but choose to do so now?"

“What a disappointment Brian,” another simply penned before a third added: “Oh man…. Not Brian May too… my hero. This breaks my heart.”

Brian May

Brian May was hit with some divided opinions on his latest post

INSTAGRAM

Another said: “So disappointed in you Brian. I say this as someone who has been changed by the music you’ve made. This woman and her views are in the minority and the fact that hers is the only Jewish voice you platform is an absolute travesty. Shame.”

However, some were in agreement with May, as one pointed out: “This takes bravery to post and you are right to do so. It's not antisemitic, it's pro-human rights.”

“I know you are very careful not to get too political on here, but I think it was a good decision to repost this. Ceasefire is the only way,” another agreed.

A third penned: “Thanks for sharing it, Bri. Brave and wise woman. Humanity first, beyond nation borders.” (sic)

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