Irish Band Kneecap Performs Glastonbury Amid Terror Charges, Political Backlash

The Irish rap group Kneecap is set to perform at Glastonbury Festival despite significant controversy and calls for their removal. Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, a member of the trio, faces terrorism charges related to allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during a previous gig, a matter he claims was part of his onstage character and a joke. The performance has drawn criticism from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other political figures, but has also garnered support from over 100 prominent musicians and Glastonbury's organizers, including Emily Eavis, who emphasized inclusivity at the festival. The group's set is expected to be one of the most controversial in Glastonbury's history, and it is believed it will not be televised. Meanwhile, other Northern Irish artists like the band Chalk are also performing, highlighting the strong presence of Irish music at the festival. The controversy around Kneecap underscores ongoing tensions between artistic expression and political sensitivities at major cultural events.