M. Shadows, the lead singer of Avenged Sevenfold, has defended his decision to send a video message welcoming home two Israeli fans who were recently freed after being held hostage in Gaza. Shadows emphasized that his gesture was motivated by compassion and not intended as a political statement, despite receiving criticism from some fans. He spoke about the deep personal connections the band has with Israel, including friends lost in the Nova music festival attack, and expressed his desire to support fans regardless of their background. Shadows also addressed the broader divisions among fans over the Israel-Gaza conflict, urging for empathy and understanding beyond political lines.