Irish Rap Trio Kneecap to Headline London Festival Amid Counter-Terrorism Probe

The Irish rap trio Kneecap is set to headline the Wide Awake Festival in London despite facing cancellations of other concerts and an ongoing investigation by the Metropolitan Police's counter-terrorism unit. The probe was launched after videos surfaced showing band members allegedly shouting support for Hamas and Hezbollah and calling for Conservative MPs to be killed, remarks that provoked widespread political condemnation and backlash from the families of murdered MPs Jo Cox and Sir David Amess. Kneecap has apologized to the families and denied supporting the banned organizations, claiming the footage was exploited and weaponized. While several of their UK and German shows were cancelled, the Wide Awake Festival confirmed the group's performance would proceed after discussions with stakeholders, emphasizing their support of alternative music and artistic freedom. The controversy has sparked debate about censorship, with some artists defending Kneecap's right to perform. The band's decision to sell merchandise referencing the police probe further highlights their defiant stance amid the scandal.