Irish hip-hop artists Kneecap critique Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán during the Sziget 2025 broadcast
The Irish rap group Kneecap has been barred from performing at Hungary's Sziget Festival due to the Hungarian government deeming them a "national security threat" because of statements considered anti-Semitic and glorifying Hamas and Hezbollah.
Controversial Statements and Support for Palestine
Kneecap is known for its outspoken support of the Palestinian cause and has made controversial comments about Israel's military actions in Gaza. The band's lead singer has even accused Israel of war crimes at other events. However, the band distances itself from direct support for Hamas or Hezbollah, condemning violence against civilians universally.
Ban and Regret from Festival Organisers
The festival organisers expressed regret over the ban, emphasising their commitment to artistic freedom. They stated that the band had assured them their performance would align with the festival's values and Hungarian law. However, under government pressure and security concerns, the ban was enforced, preventing Kneecap from appearing on the festival lineup.
Widespread Support and Criticism
Kneecap has spoken out against Israel's war in Gaza at various music festivals, including Coachella, Best Kept Secret, Glastonbury, and Øyafestivalen in Oslo. Their controversial set at Glastonbury launched a police investigation. The band's ban has sparked a debate about artistic freedom and political pressure, with many in the crowd at Sziget waving Palestinian flags in support.
Future Performances Affected
Despite the ban, Kneecap has more than forty concerts remaining on its calendar for this year, including dates in Sweden, Norway, Finland, France, and Belgium, and a US leg which kicks off in October. However, several festivals have cancelled Kneecap shows, including Germany's Hurricane and Southside festivals, and Austria's upcoming gig in Vienna due to acute safety concerns.
The upcoming Green Man Festival in Wales will feature Kneecap, despite some cancellations. The band's upcoming gig in Vienna was cancelled due to political pressure from Austria's far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ). Israel has rejected genocide accusations and maintains that its operations are lawful acts of self-defense. Multiple UN human rights experts have stated that Israel's military actions in Gaza amount to genocide.
References
- BBC News
- The Guardian
- Irish Times
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