Critic Leads Protest Against Punk Rappers Over Alleged Anti-Semitism
Prominent restaurant critic Giles Coren found himself at the forefront of a heated demonstration outside a London music venue last night, leading a protest against punk rap duo Bob Vylan. The 56-year-old journalist, who is Jewish, expressed outrage that a band he views as anti-Semitic was performing just 100 yards from his Kentish Town home.
Glastonbury Chant Sparks National Controversy
The controversy stems from Bob Vylan's performance at Glastonbury this summer, where they encouraged the crowd to chant 'Death to the IDF' in relation to the Gaza conflict. This incident, broadcast live, contributed to mounting pressure on BBC bosses that ultimately led to senior resignations within the corporation.
Mr Coren told The Daily Mail he felt personally targeted by the band's comments about not wanting to work for 'bleeding Zionists', which he interpreted as referring to Jewish record label executives. 'This just means Jewish record label executives and so on - and that could've been me,' he stated.
Divided Protests Outside London Venue
The scene outside the O2 Forum in Kentish Town saw two large, opposing protest groups. Pro-Israel demonstrators gathered alongside Mr Coren, while counter-protesters supporting Bob Vylan waved Palestine flags and chanted 'From the river to the sea' - a slogan many in the Jewish community consider anti-Semitic as it suggests the elimination of Israel.
Mr Coren described the counter-protesters as 'a collection of dissatisfied people, sort of pierced, blue hair, lefties' and noted the area's political leanings, mentioning both Keir Starmer and Jeremy Corbyn's connections to the constituency.
Scores of police officers worked to maintain order between the two sides, with some filming attendees to prevent potential clashes.
From Protester to Audience Member
In a surprising turn, despite his strong objections, Mr Coren purchased a £39.50 ticket and attended the performance after the protest concluded. He later posted footage of the band on stage via his X social media account.
The critic explained his complex relationship with religion in previous writings, acknowledging his Jewish heritage while also participating in Christian traditions with his son. He described himself as having 'no religious education, no tradition of belief, no community' while maintaining 'instinctive support for the Jewish state but no comfort or experience in Jewish observance.'
Bob Vylan has denied allegations of anti-Semitism, stating after their Glastonbury performance: 'We are not for the death of Jews, Arabs or any other race or group of people. We are for the dismantling of a violent military machine.'
The Daily Mail has approached Bob Vylan for further comment regarding the Kentish Town protests.
