Archive · 29 Jun 2025
Glastonbury Faces Backlash Over Anti-Israel Chants by Artists
During Glastonbury Festival, musician Bob Vylan chanted against the Israeli military, which caused an outcry.
The festival organizers, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and the Israeli Embassy all expressed disapproval.
The police are reviewing the performance for any potential offenses.
Another band, Kneecap, also criticized Israel.
These actions sparked a response from political figures, raising questions about the line between freedom of expression and hate speech.
Keir Starmer and Glastonbury organizers condemned anti-Israel chants during Bob Vylan's performance.
Bob Vylan chanted, "Death, death, to the IDF."
Police are assessing video evidence for potential offenses.
Kneecap also criticized Israel and was criticized by Starmer.
The BBC issued a warning during its iPlayer stream and has no plans to make the performance available on demand.
- Who
- Bob Vylan, Kneecap, Keir Starmer, Glastonbury organizers, Avon and Somerset Police, the BBC, and the Israeli Embassy.
- What
- Controversial chants and criticisms of Israel at the Glastonbury Festival.
- When
- During performances at the Glastonbury Festival on Saturday.
- Where
- Glastonbury Festival, UK.
- Why
- Due to anti-Israel comments and chants during the performances.
Freedom of Expression
Responsibility
Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech
Freedom of Expression
Artists should have the right to express their views, even if controversial.
Responsibility
Hate speech and incitement to violence are unacceptable.
- Festival
- Glastonbury
- Bands
- Bob Vylan, Kneecap
- Chant
- "Death, death, to the IDF"
- Police Action
- Reviewing video evidence
- BBC
- Issued warning, no on-demand access
- Criticism
- From Starmer and the Israeli Embassy
Sources
Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap play Glastonbury despite calls for ban
Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap play Glastonbury despite calls for ban
Irish rap group Kneecap plays at Glastonbury despite criticism
BBC Avoids Kneecap But Live Streams Another Act Leading Crowd Chants Of “Death To The IDF” & “Free Palestine”
Bob Vylan Sparks Controversy At 2025 Glastonbury With 'Death To IDF' Chants Ahead Of Kneecap Set | Video
Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap lead anti-Keir Starmer chant at Glastonbury
BBC Slams “Deeply Offensive” Glastonbury Set: “We Have No Plans To Make It Available On Demand”
UK police studying Glastonbury performances after anti-Israel chants
UK government condemns 'Death to IDF' chants at Glastonbury festival
UK police studying Glastonbury performances after anti-Israel comments