By M10News Entertainment Desk | Copyright © M10News 2025
LONDON, June 30, 2025 (M10News) — British police are investigating performances by Bob Vylan and Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap at the Glastonbury Festival, following controversial remarks and chants made on stage.
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed on Saturday that they are reviewing video footage from both performances to determine whether any offences were committed that could lead to criminal investigations.
Bob Vylan Performance Under Scrutiny
During the set at the festival’s West Holts Stage, Bob Vylan frontman Bobby Vylan led the crowd in chants of “Free, free Palestine” and “Death to the IDF,” with footage also showing him declaring: “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” — a slogan widely associated with Palestinian solidarity but also criticised by Israeli groups as incitement.
In response to the backlash, Bobby Vylan posted on social media, sharing a selfie holding a tub of vegan ice cream with the caption: “While Zionists are crying on socials, I’ve just had a tub of (vegan) ice cream.”
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police stated: “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.”
BBC and Government React
The performance, which was broadcast live by the BBC, also drew criticism from Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy. Her spokesperson condemned the remarks, saying: “We strongly condemn the threatening comments made by Bob Vylan at Glastonbury.”
The BBC issued a statement clarifying that a live content warning had been displayed during the performance: “Some of the comments made during Bob Vylan’s set were deeply offensive. A warning was issued on screen about the very strong and discriminatory language. We have no plans to make the performance available on demand.”
Kneecap’s Call to ‘Start a Riot’ Sparks Further Outrage
Irish rap group Kneecap also faced criticism after referencing the ongoing legal case involving member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaid, also known as Mo Chara. Ó hAnnaid is facing charges over allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag at a performance last year, which he denies.
During their Glastonbury set, Kneecap member Naoise Ó Cairealláin told the crowd: “It’s not the first time there has been a miscarriage of justice for an Irish person in the British justice system. If anyone is available on August 20th at Westminster, we will go to support Mo Chara, we will start a riot outside the courts.”
Political Figures Condemn Remarks
Health Secretary Wes Streeting criticised both performances during an appearance on Sky News, calling the incidents “appalling” and questioning the BBC’s decision to air the content.
“It’s a pretty shameless publicity stunt,” Streeting added. “We all condemned what happened on October 7th. There’s no justification for inciting violence against Israelis, but the conduct of Israel’s war has made it increasingly difficult for allies to justify unwavering support.”
The incident has reignited debate over the boundaries of free speech in music and the role of broadcasters in moderating politically charged performances at major events.
(M10News International Desk)
