Police investigate performers after Glastonbury chants call for “death” to Israeli military

British police have launched a criminal investigation into controversial onstage chants made by rap-punk duo Bob Vylan and Irish-language group Kneecap during their weekend performances at Glastonbury Festival, triggering a political storm, international backlash, and broadcast controversy.

The performances, which included chants of “Free, free Palestine” and “Death, death to the IDF [Israeli military],” are now being treated as a public order incident, Avon and Somerset Police confirmed on Monday. Officers said they are reviewing footage and considering whether laws against incitement and hate speech were broken.

Rapper Bobby Vylan, the frontman of the previously underground duo, shouted the slogans to a roaring crowd, prompting a divided reaction online and from festivalgoers. The chants were broadcast live by the BBC, which has since apologised, stating the footage “should not have been aired.”

The UK’s broadcasting regulator, Ofcom, said it was “very concerned” and added the BBC “has questions to answer” over its editorial decisions. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the scenes as “appalling hate speech,” and called on the national broadcaster to clarify how such “incendiary content” was allowed on air.

Starmer stated: “While everyone has the right to protest, calling for death or glorifying violence is beyond the pale. There must be consequences.”

The fallout spread beyond Britain. The United States Department of State has revoked Bob Vylan’s visas, cancelling the group’s upcoming American tour. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau posted on social media: “Foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country.”

Irish-language rap group Kneecap, known for provocative performances, also joined chants supporting a “Free Palestine” during their Glastonbury set. Neither group has responded publicly to the police inquiry.

The controversy comes amid global fury over Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has killed more than 56,000 Palestinians and wounded over 130,000, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health. Protests have swept across campuses and city centres worldwide, reigniting debates around anti-Zionism versus anti-Semitism, and the boundaries of free speech.

Supporters of the Glastonbury performers argue that the chants reflected justified political protest, not hate speech, pointing to the UK’s long tradition of musical activism. Others, including several MPs across the political spectrum, insist the language used crossed a dangerous line and risked inciting violence.

Legal experts say the case may test the boundaries of artistic expression under UK law, especially given the charged political climate and ongoing military violence abroad.

The BBC, already under scrutiny for perceived political bias from multiple sides, faces a renewed internal review over how festival content is selected and monitored for live broadcast. Critics warn that failing to take action could further damage public trust.

Festival organisers have declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation. Glastonbury has long been known for its political edge, but this year’s events have thrust it into the heart of a diplomatic and legal firestorm.

As investigators sift through recordings and statements, the case raises deeper questions about how far artists can or should go in voicing dissent — and whether governments should respond by silencing, prosecuting, or platforming them.