Kneecap Banned from Hungary Amidst Controversy Over Pro-Palestinian Stance and Allegations of Antisemitism
Hungary has formally banned the Irish-speaking rap group Kneecap from entering the country for three years, citing concerns over alleged antisemitism and support for terrorism. The decision, announced by Zoltan Kovacs, Hungary’s secretary of state for international communication, follows weeks of escalating controversy surrounding the West Belfast trio’s provocative lyrics and public displays of support for Palestine.
Escalating Restrictions and Accusations
According to a statement released on social media, Kovacs asserted that the band members “repeatedly engage in anti-Semitic hate speech supporting terrorism and terrorist groups.” He further emphasized that Hungary maintains “zero tolerance for antisemitism in any form,” and that their planned performance at the Sziget Festival in Budapest this August was deemed a “national security threat.” Kovacs warned that any attempt to enter Hungary would result in expulsion, adhering to international norms.
Kneecap has consistently denied supporting designated terrorist organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah. However, the band has faced increasing scrutiny over its pro-Palestinian messaging, particularly during performances at major international festivals.
Legal Challenges and Festival Cancellations
The controversy extends beyond Hungary. In June, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known as Mo Chara, a member of Kneecap, appeared in a London court charged with a terror offence after allegedly displaying a flag supporting Hezbollah at a gig. He was released on unconditional bail, and Kneecap released a statement in May vehemently denying the allegations.
Further complicating matters, Avon and Somerset Police launched a criminal investigation into comments made by the band during their Glastonbury performance in June, ultimately deciding against further action. Despite this, the question of Kneecap’s participation at Glastonbury drew criticism, even prompting commentary from the prime minister, who suggested their performance was “inappropriate.” The band also reported being removed from the TRNSMT music festival in Glasgow due to police safety concerns.
In April, Kneecap faced backlash after displaying messages related to the war in Gaza during their set at the Coachella festival in the United States, with Sharon Osbourne publicly calling for the revocation of their US visas.
Rise to Prominence and Recent Legal Victory
Formed in 2017, Kneecap – comprised of Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí – has quickly gained recognition for its unique blend of Irish-language rap and politically charged lyrics. Their story has even inspired a semi-fictionalized film starring Oscar-nominated actor Michael Fassbender, which won a British Academy of Film Award (Bafta) in February 2025.
Notably, in November 2024, Kneecap secured a legal victory against the UK government, overturning a decision by Kemi Badenoch, then a minister, to withdraw an arts grant awarded to the group.
The band’s ongoing controversies highlight the increasing tensions surrounding artistic expression and political activism on the global stage, raising questions about the boundaries of free speech and the responsibilities of performers in a polarized world.
