Massive Attack banned from Singapore after Palestinian flag at concert

Massive Attack's members were issued stern warnings and barred from re-entering Singapore after displaying the Palestinian flag during their concert, violating local regulations.

Two members ​of Massive Attack were issued ‌with stern ​warnings and barred from re-entering Singapore after the British band ended their performance on Wednesday with a display of the ‌Palestinian flag, according to local media reports.

Authorities said the band were investigated for their "actions of support for a political cause and unfurling of a foreign flag", during the band’s concert, reports ‌said. The Infocomm Media Development Authority also said it is investigating the possible breach of ‌a number of licence conditions and will take "necessary action" when investigations are completed, reports added.

Singapore does not allow the public display of foreign national emblems without a permit or exemption, and the Palestinian flag is especially ⁠sensitive given ​the war in ⁠Gaza and Singapore's Muslim population. In 2023, the home affairs ministry said: "The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict is an emotive issue. ⁠We would like to advise against the public display and wearing of articles in relation to the conflict, ​given the heightened sensitivities."

"The peace and harmony between different races and religions in ⁠Singapore should not be taken for granted, and we must not let events happening externally affect this peace ⁠and ​harmony we have in Singapore." Singapore's resident population is 74% Chinese, 13.6% Malay, and 9% Indian, with 3.3% classified as others. Around 15% are Muslim.

Massive Attack, formed in Bristol ⁠in the west of England in 1988, are known for their outspoken political stances, with videos during ⁠their concert highlighting ⁠conflicts from the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, to Sudan, Gaza and Ukraine. Neither the concert organiser Lushington nor the band immediately responded to ‌a request ‌for comment.