The iconic Glastonbury Festival is currently facing scrutiny after provocative performances on the West Holts Stage sparked a police investigation and significant political backlash.
Rap-punk duo Bob Vylan incited the crowd with chants including “Free, free Palestine” and “Death, death to the IDF.” Meanwhile, Irish rap group Kneecap urged fans to “start a riot” in support of a bandmate who is facing terrorism charges.
Avon and Somerset Police have launched an inquiry into these incendiary remarks. A police statement on social media said: “We are aware of the comments made by acts on the West Holts Stage at Glastonbury Festival this afternoon. Video evidence will be assessed by officers to determine whether any offences may have been committed that would require a criminal investigation.”
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has criticised the BBC and Glastonbury Festival organisers for providing a platform to Bob Vylan. A government spokesperson stated: “We strongly condemn the threatening comments made by Bob Vylan at Glastonbury. The Culture Secretary has spoken to the BBC and welcomes the decision not to re-broadcast the performance on BBC iPlayer.”
The BBC had initially planned to stream Kneecap’s set but cancelled the broadcast amid public backlash. It remains unclear if footage of their performance will remain available online.
Kneecap’s frontman Naoise Ó Cairealláin, also known as Moglai Bap, fired up the crowd by shouting: “We’ll start a riot outside the courts,” referring to fellow member Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh’s upcoming terror-related court hearing. He later clarified: “No riots, just one and support… and support for Palestine.”
Ó Hannaidh, 27, wore a keffiyeh during the gig, while DJ Provai appeared wearing a balaclava and a T-shirt stating “We are all Palestine Action,” a group that is set to be banned under UK anti-terror laws.
Ó Hannaidh faces charges for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during a Belfast show last November and shouting slogans supporting Hamas and Hezbollah. He denies all charges and is currently on unconditional bail. His next court date is scheduled for August 20 at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
Political pressure on the festival has intensified. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer previously described Kneecap’s appearance as “not appropriate,” which sparked outrage among artists and campaigners. During their Glastonbury set, Kneecap responded defiantly: “The Prime Minister of your country, not mine, said he didn’t want us to play, so f*** Keir Starmer.” They also praised the Glastonbury Eavis family for standing by them despite mounting pressure.
The controversial bands faced boos after clips criticising them were played before their sets. However, thousands of festival-goers showed up to support the acts.
Avon and Somerset Police have not yet confirmed if any artists will be interviewed but stated they are “assessing evidence” and are closely monitoring public order and crowd safety throughout the festival.
Originally published by UKNIP.
