Kneecap Investigated by UK Counter-Terrorism Police for Pro-Hamas Chants

Irish rap group Kneecap is under investigation by the UK’s counter-terrorism police after videos surfaced showing a band member allegedly chanting pro-Hamas and pro-Hezbollah slogans during a November 2023 London performance, with one member draped in a Hezbollah flag. The footage was referred to the Counter Terrorism Internet Referral Unit to determine if it breaches the Terrorism Act 2000, which criminalizes support for proscribed organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah. The renewed scrutiny follows Kneecap’s recent Coachella appearances, where they displayed pro-Palestinian messages critical of Israel, further amplifying controversy around the group. The band previously received public funding from the UK Labour Party after winning a legal challenge over denied grants. Public figures, including Sharon Osbourne, have since called for Kneecap’s US visa to be revoked due to their onstage statements. Authorities are currently assessing whether further police investigation is warranted.