System Of A Down’s Daron Malakian Calls Out Presidents And Politicians Who Start Wars Without Sending Their Own Children

System Of A Down guitarist and vocalist Daron Malakian has once again shared a politically charged message, directing criticism toward world leaders who initiate wars while avoiding personal sacrifice.

On April 3rd, Malakian posted a short video to Instagram showing himself flipping off the camera — a visual nod widely interpreted as referencing the band’s 2005 anti-war anthem “B.Y.O.B.” He accompanied the clip with a pointed caption aimed squarely at political leadership:

“This one goes out to presidents and politicians who start wars and don’t send their sons, daughters, and loved ones to the battlefield. Why do they always send the poor?!!!!”

The post arrives months after Malakian faced mixed reactions surrounding “Your Lives Burn,” a track from Scars On Broadway’s latest album Addicted To The Violence. While intended as a protest song, the single drew criticism from some listeners who felt its messaging lacked a clearly defined stance, leading to online backlash from both fans and detractors.

Because System Of A Down built much of its legacy on sharply political material — often associated with vocalist Serj Tankian’s outspoken activism — Malakian’s solo work was inevitably compared to the band’s historically confrontational approach to social and political issues.

Political commentary has long existed within the band’s orbit, though members have expressed differing viewpoints in recent years. Tankian continues to advocate publicly for progressive causes, while drummer John Dolmayan has openly voiced support for U.S. President Donald J. Trump, highlighting the ideological contrast among the group’s members despite their shared musical history.

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