Punk Band's Glastonbury Death Chant Sparks International Fury: Visas Revoked, Police Investigation Launched!

2025-07-02 12:00:21.884

The punk-rap duo Bob Vylan, previously known for their UK top 20 album and Kerrang! award, found themselves at the center of an international controversy following a Glastonbury performance where frontman Bobby Vylan led the crowd in chants of "death, death to the IDF." This sparked widespread condemnation in the UK, with Glastonbury characterizing the chant as antisemitic and Prime Minister Keir Starmer calling it "appalling." While Vylan clarified on Instagram that the chant was against the Israeli Defense Forces, not Jewish people, Avon and Somerset police launched a criminal investigation. The incident led to the US revoking the band's visas, with Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau stating that those who "glorify violence and hatred" are unwelcome. The event highlighted the complex issue of criticizing Israeli actions versus antisemitism. Bob Vylan, known for their politically charged music combining punk, grime, reggae, and indie, has consistently addressed issues such as food poverty and institutional racism, with Palestinian rights being a central theme. Their Glastonbury performance, intended as a career highlight, was overshadowed by the controversy. The incident follows similar visa issues faced by other bands with pro-Palestinian views. The US State Department's public announcement of the visa ban is unprecedented. While Bob Vylan and their actions have been condemned by many, including the UK's chief rabbi, others argue the outrage is disproportionate given the broader pro-Palestinian sentiment at Glastonbury and the context of the ongoing conflict and alleged genocide in Gaza. Vylan maintains they are being targeted for speaking out and that the controversy distracts from the larger issues at hand.