Visas Revoked for British Punk-Rappers Who Led Anti-Israel Chants at Festival

The U.S. State Department has revoked the visas of British punk-rappers Bob Vylan following their involvement in inciting hate at a recent music festival. During their performance at the Glastonbury Festival, the duo led the audience in chants containing inflammatory language, such as “From the river to the sea, Palestine must be, will be, inshallah, it will be free,” and “Death, death to the IDF.”

The first chant calls for the expulsion or elimination of all Jews from Israel, while the second openly advocates violence against Israeli defenders, framing it as a call for their slaughter. These chants drew tens of thousands of fans, creating a spectacle reminiscent of propaganda from the darkest eras.

In response, U.S. authorities have taken action, clarifying that no foreign visitor has the right to enter the country to promote hate and terrorism. The revocation of their visas is a message that promoting such views will not be tolerated.

Back in the UK, the band faces mounting criticism. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other politicians have condemned their behavior, with the BBC expressing regret for broadcasting the controversial performance. The United Talent Agency has announced it will cease representing the band. The police are also investigating the incident, but critics say UK efforts to regulate speech are inconsistent and flawed.

Bob Vylan leads anti-Israel chants during their performance at Glastonbury Festival.

While free speech rights protect Americans’ ability to express hate publicly, that does not extend to welcoming foreign individuals who promote violence and terrorism. Authorities commend the swift response by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Department of Justice in addressing this issue.