Behemoth have issued an official response to the recent cancelation of their planned concerts in Istanbul and Ankara, Turkey this week. The decision to scrap those shows was not made by the band themselves, but rather local authorities, who took issue with the Satanic content associated with the Polish blackened death metal outfit.
Istanbul’s Governor Davut Gül said in a statement shared via his social media regarding the matter:
“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.”
An official press release from his office [translated from Turkish to English] further laid out their reasoning from barring both Behemoth‘s shows in the country this week, along with a planned set from Slaughter To Prevail:
‘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 this morning (February 11th), Behemoth offered:
“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 protested the decision, while distancing themselves from any claims of being Satanic.
