Glastonbury music festival at the center of scandal

Here’s why

The British music festival Glastonbury has found itself at the center of a scandal following performances by the bands Bob Vylan and Kneecap. One of the members of the punk duo Bob Vylan shouted «Free Palestine» from the stage and then urged the audience to chant the slogan «Death to the IDF», directed at the Israeli army. At the same time, a message appeared on the screen behind the artist: «The UN calls it genocide. The BBC calls it a «conflict».

The hip-hop group Kneecap also expressed support for Palestinians, calling for a protest outside a courthouse, but soon added: «No violence – only love and solidarity with Palestine».

The Israeli Embassy in London condemned the performers’ behavior, calling it «a provocative incitement to hatred» and «an encouragement of radicalism».

Festival organizers echoed this position, stating that Bob Vylan’s remarks contradict Glastonbury’s core values and ethical standards. The BBC, which had broadcast the performance live, announced that the recording would not appear on iPlayer and would not be included in any re-airings.

Photo: Instagram @bobbyvylan, @kneecap32, @glastofest