Glastonbury Festival erupted into a fervent display of pro-Palestine sentiment this weekend, as artists took to the stage to denounce Israel’s actions in Gaza, igniting a firestorm of debate across the UK. The London-based pop duo Bob Villain led the crowd in chants calling for justice against the Israeli military, while the Irish hip hop trio Kneecap delivered a politically charged performance that resonated with an audience of 30,000, many waving Palestinian flags.
Wearing a kafia, Kneecap’s Moara condemned Israel as “war criminals,” accusing critics of attempting to silence pro-Palestinian voices. The Israeli embassy swiftly condemned the remarks as “hateful,” and UK police have announced they are reviewing footage from the West Holts stage to assess whether any laws were violated.
As tensions rise globally over the ongoing conflict, fans expressed their pride in the artists for voicing support for Palestine, with one concertgoer stating, “They are one of the only bands here that are actually preaching about Palestine.” The performances at Glastonbury, a festival known for its political undertones, underscored the urgency of the Palestinian cause amid what many are calling a genocide.
In a striking moment of solidarity, the artists ensured that the plight of the Palestinian people was not only heard but felt, as chants echoed through the festival grounds. This year’s Glastonbury has become a battleground for free expression, as world leaders continue to obscure the realities of the conflict. The spotlight on Palestine is brighter than ever, and the call for justice is resonating louder than the music itself.