Counterterrorism Investigation Launched into Irish Rap Group Kneecap Over Controversial Comments
The London police investigate Irish group Kneecap after controversial statements about politicians and a call to support banned organizations.
Kneecap is being investigated by counter-terrorism police following videos allegedly showing the band calling for the deaths of MPs and shouting “up Hamas, up Hezbollah.”
Kneecap Investigated by Counter-Terrorism Officers Over ‘Kill Your MP’ Video
Epoch Times·1d·Mixed ReliableThis source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.RightThis outlet favors right-wing views.Several Kneecap gigs have been canceled as a result of the controversy, and some British lawmakers have called on organizers of June’s Glastonbury Festival to scrap a planned performance by the group.
UK counterterror police say they will investigate comments by Irish rap group Kneecap
Associated Press·1d·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Kneecap are not the story.
Kneecap row: police assessing ‘kill MP’ and ‘up Hamas, up Hezbollah’ footage
The Guardian·1d·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.Leans LeftThis outlet slightly leans left.
Summary
The Metropolitan Police are investigating Irish hip-hop group Kneecap for comments made in concert footage, which suggested violence against politicians and expressed support for Hamas and Hezbollah. Following backlash from UK lawmakers demanding the group's removal from festivals, including Glastonbury, Kneecap issued an apology to the families of murdered MPs David Amess and Jo Cox, asserting that their comments were misinterpreted and denying support for terrorist organizations. The group's gigs have faced cancellations amid ongoing public and political scrutiny, leading to vocal support from several artists defending their freedom of expression.
Perspectives
Kneecap is under investigation by counter-terrorism police due to controversial comments made during performances that seemingly call for violence against politicians and support for banned groups.
The band's lyrics and statements have sparked significant backlash from politicians, especially regarding the implications of their messages in light of recent political violence in the UK.
Kneecap has expressed remorse in their statements and clarified that they do not support Hamas or Hezbollah, framing the backlash as an overreaction and an attempt to suppress artistic expression.