Behemoth have responded after local officials halted their scheduled performances in Istanbul and Ankara, Turkey this week. The Polish blackened death metal group were not responsible for pulling the shows — the cancellations came from authorities who objected to the band’s imagery and lyrical themes.
Istanbul Governor Davut Gül publicly addressed the situation via social media, stating:
“No activity that corrupts society in Istanbul has ever been permitted up to this day, and it will not be permitted in the future either.”
A translated press statement from the governor’s office expanded on the reasoning behind banning both Behemoth and Slaughter To Prevail from performing, citing backlash from portions of the public and invoking legal authority to block the events:
‘As a result of the preparations for the concert events to be held at the Zorlu Performing Arts Center Turkcell Stage within the boundaries of our district, on February 10th at 21:30 by the group “Slaughter To Prevail” and on February 11th at 21:30 by the group “BEHEMOTH” ;
It has been observed that the events have caused a backlash from many segments of society due to their incompatibility with our societal values.
Therefore, pursuant to Articles 17 and 22 of Law No. 2911 on Meetings and Demonstrations and Article 32/Ç of Law No. 5442 on Provincial Administration;
It has been decided that all kinds of concerts, festivals, group and ticketed programs, etc., events within Zorlu PSM and Zorlu Center are PROHIBITED for a period of 2 (two) days, from 00:01 on 10.02.2026 to 23:59 on 11.02.2026.
RESPECTFULLY ANNOUNCED TO THE PUBLIC.’
Speaking on February 11th, Behemoth issued their own statement addressing fans and the circumstances surrounding the shutdown:
“To our fans in Istanbul and Ankara, we are deeply disappointed to confirm that our scheduled performances in Turkey have been cancelled. Despite exhausting every possible avenue throughout the day and engaging in extensive discussions, the decision from the local authorities remains final. There is simply nothing further we can do to overturn it.
The cancellations come after pressure from religious groups who have characterized our art as satanic propaganda and deemed it unacceptable. This is another example of ideology being used to suppress artistic expression and restrict cultural freedom. Behemoth has always stood for creative independence and the right of artists to express themselves without censorship. Music is not a threat, but silencing it should concern anyone who values freedom of expression.
To those who planned to attend, who travelled, and who stood ready to share this night with us, we are truly sorry. We fought to make these shows happen and we share your frustration and disappointment. Turkey has some of the most passionate and dedicated fans in the world and we hope the day will come when we can return to Istanbul and Ankara and perform for you without interference. Until then, thank you for your unwavering support.”
Slaughter To Prevail also pushed back against the ruling while clarifying they do not identify with Satanic themes, distancing themselves from the claims cited in the decision.
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