Irish Rap Group Kneecap Leads Anti-Starmer Chants at Glastonbury Despite Terror Charges

The Belfast rap trio Kneecap performed at Glastonbury Festival amid controversy and political criticism, notably from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer who called their inclusion "not appropriate." The group, known for their Irish republican symbolism and support for Palestine, led the crowd in chants against Starmer and for Palestinian freedom. Member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, performing as Mo Chara, faces a terrorism charge related to allegedly waving a Hezbollah flag at a London concert, which the band calls a "distraction." Despite calls for banning their performance and the BBC's decision not to live-stream their set, Kneecap received strong support from fans and festival organizers. The band also released a powerful message denouncing the genocide in Gaza, highlighting reports from international human rights organizations and demanding urgent action. Their performance was marked by political statements, a sea of Palestinian and Irish flags, and a dedication to controversial causes, underscoring their role as a provocative voice in current political discourse.