Idan Amedi: “I Won’t Stay Silent When My Brothers Are Called War Criminals”

Following public criticism over his remarks against an artists’ petition calling for an end to the war in Gaza, Israeli singer and IDF reservist Idan Amedi broke his silence Monday night during the premiere of "Let Life Dance", a new documentary chronicling his recovery from injuries sustained in the October 7 war.

"I’m aware of the spin being pushed against me," Amedi said during the screening. "They’re trying to paint me as someone who’s advocating for endless war, but that is a lie."

Amedi, who was seriously injured in combat while serving in the IDF reserves, has become a public symbol of resilience. His remarks were in response to a recent open letter signed by dozens of Israeli artists urging a ceasefire. Amedi strongly opposed the letter and defended the actions of his fellow soldiers.

“I won’t stay silent when my brothers and sisters are being called war criminals,” he declared. “The reservists who ran into the fire without hesitation on October 7 and beyond, they are not war criminals. They are our shield: both physical and moral. Even for those who signed petitions against them.”

The singer spoke candidly about his physical and emotional recovery, as documented in the film, which will air Tuesday on Keshet 12. “Time passes, you get stronger, wounds close, and the scars on your face heal,” he said. “But something inside you still longs for that green morphine button that eased the pain and the loss.”

“There’s a voice inside that pushes you to live up to the expectations, to meet the standard you set for yourself when you went into battle,” he continued. “To be the hero people want you to be.”

In closing, Amedi turned his message toward fellow veterans:

“To all my brothers and sisters wounded in body and spirit: be kind to yourselves. Reflect what’s going on inside. And to those supporting them: listen, don’t judge. There’s a storm inside that doesn’t always have words.”