UK police have launched a criminal investigation into controversial performances by Bob Vylan and Kneecap at Glastonbury 2025, following anti-Israel chants and politically charged outbursts that shocked audiences and officials alike.
During Bob Vylan’s live set, broadcast by the BBC, frontman Bobby Vylan led chants of “Death to the IDF” and “Free Palestine,” which many condemned as antisemitic. The BBC later apologized for not pulling the stream in real-time, and Ofcom is now demanding answers. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the performance “appalling hate speech.”
Meanwhile, Irish rap group Kneecap also came under fire for chants of “F*** Keir Starmer” and visible support for pro-Palestinian groups. Mo Chara, a group member out on bail for a terror-related charge involving Hezbollah, made direct references to his legal case during the show, inciting further political chants from the crowd.
Glastonbury organisers and the BBC are facing criticism for giving a platform to messages perceived as hate speech. The US has revoked Bob Vylan’s visas ahead of their American tour, citing incitement concerns.
The police investigation is ongoing and will review footage under UK hate crime laws.
