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Kneecap Faces Backlash Over Coachella's Anti-Israel Messaging

The Irish rap trio defends their pro-Palestinian stance as they contend with death threats, visa-revocation calls, and a police counterterrorism review.

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Members of the band Kneecap perform onstage during Day 1 of Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 18, 2025, in Indio, Calif.
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Overview

  • Kneecap displayed messages such as 'Israel is committing genocide' and 'Fuck Israel. Free Palestine' during their Coachella performance, sparking widespread criticism.
  • Sharon Osbourne and others have called for the revocation of the group's U.S. work visas, citing their messaging as hate speech and support for terrorist organizations.
  • The Metropolitan Police are reviewing footage of past Kneecap performances where alleged pro-Hamas and pro-Hezbollah chants were made.
  • The group has parted ways with their booking agency, Independent Artist Group, following the controversy surrounding their Coachella set.
  • Kneecap has condemned what they describe as a 'coordinated smear campaign' against them and vowed to continue using their platform to advocate for Palestinian rights.