Yep - difference between empathy (explaining) and sympathy (justifying).

The only reason one would share their empathy for these people is to garner sympathy. That is what I took issue with.

Let's try this again,

You said you haven't found effective ways to do anything about it.

How about you stop calling them friends for a start.

Secondly, say something. You're literally the only one who can.

Don't just sit there and try to justify their shitty actions so you can let yourself off the hook as if you tried but couldn't do anything because you know, what about their lifestyles.