U2's Bono Compares Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir to Nazi Heinrich Himmler

Bono, the lead singer of the band U2, has sharply criticized Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, comparing his rhetoric about Gaza residents to that of Heinrich Himmler, a key architect of the Nazi Holocaust. The remarks were made in an extensive interview with Rolling Stone magazine coinciding with the release of the band's new album, "Carnaval De Luz."

In the interview, Bono discussed a new song, "The Tears of Things," which he described as an attempt to understand a world where the moral strength of Judaism is more crucial than ever. While condemning Hamas's October 7th massacre as a "desecration," Bono expressed his strongest shock at Ben-Gvir's statements suggesting some Gaza residents are not worthy of life and are not human. Bono drew a parallel between these remarks and Himmler's rhetoric.

Bono noted that many influential figures who shaped his consciousness, made him laugh, and broke his heart with their songs were Jewish, stating that Ben-Gvir "casts a shadow over their religion." He also criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, questioning the logic of allowing a minister to serve without arrest when, according to Bono, the Prime Minister depends on him for coalition majority.

Bono also suggested that Israel should "fix the situation" and address what happened during the Nakba through compromise, which he believes is at the core of Judaism. The interview also touched upon the recording process for the new album, including a visit from former President Barack Obama, and contrasted it with previous albums. The band aimed for a sound as if they were all playing together in one room for this record.

This is not the first time Bono has criticized Israeli leadership. In a previous album, "Days of Ash," released in February, the band included a song remembering a Palestinian activist killed by a settler and a song against war by Israeli poet Yehuda Amichai. At that time, Bono also criticized Netanyahu, Ben-Gvir, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, arguing that all Jews were being wrongly blamed for the actions of these leaders.