Glastonbury Gigs Ignite Controversy Over Anti-Israel Chants

A criminal investigation is underway into performances by Bob Vylan and Kneecap at the Glastonbury Festival. The British police are assessing their stage comments for possible offences, following chants against the Israeli military. The incident has sparked reactions from political leaders and media entities alike.

British police have initiated a criminal probe into performances by Bob Vylan and Irish band Kneecap at the Glastonbury Festival. The investigation is focused on their stage comments, which included chants opposing the Israeli military and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The Avon and Somerset police are scrutinizing videos and audio to determine any public order violations by the groups, after Vylan's performance featured chants of "death to the IDF," referencing the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. Kneecap also led calls against the British government and expressed support for Palestine.

The BBC, criticized for not halting the livestream during Vylan's set, issued an on-screen advisory for strong language but acknowledged it fell short. The controversy has drawn criticism from government officials and media regulators, prompting demands for accountability from the national broadcaster.

(With inputs from agencies.)