Irish-language rap trio Kneecap have faced backlash after expressing support for Palestine during a Coachella performance in April. The band displayed messages accusing Israel of genocide and used expletives against the country, leading to their US booking agent dropping them and several summer shows being cancelled.
Following the incident, resurfaced videos showed the band making controversial statements, including 'the only good Tory is a dead Tory' and 'Up Hezbollah, up Hamas'. The band apologised for the Tory comment, saying they never intended to cause hurt, and denied supporting Hamas or Hezbollah, describing the video circulation as a smear campaign.
British counter-terrorism police investigated and later charged member Mo Chara with terror offences for allegedly brandishing a Hezbollah flag during a London show. Artists including Massive Attack and Paul Weller signed a letter supporting the band and alleging intimidation.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Commons leader Lucy Powell criticised Kneecap's upcoming Glastonbury appearance. The band remains defiant, arguing the backlash is a distraction from the situation in Palestine. Mo Chara stated that visa issues are minor compared to the suffering of Palestinians, and defended the controversial remarks as satirical jokes taken out of context.
