British punk-rap duo Bob Vylan caused a firestorm at Glastonbury Festival 2025 after frontman Bobby Vylan chanted “death to the IDF” and “free, free Palestine” during their performance on the West Holts Stage. The comments have been widely condemned as incitement to violence and antisemitic hate speech.
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Festival organizers and government officials have spoken out strongly against the remarks, while the BBC, which aired the performance, is facing criticism and formal complaints from antisemitism watchdog groups.
Glastonbury Organizers Issue Strong Rebuke
In a joint statement on Sunday, Glastonbury Festival and co-organizer Emily Eavis said they were “appalled” by the group’s statements and clarified:
“Their chants very much crossed a line… there is no place at Glastonbury for antisemitism, hate speech, or incitement to violence.”
They emphasized that while the festival welcomes diverse performers, it does not endorse statements that promote violence or discrimination.
BBC Pulls Performance, Faces Backlash for Airing It
The BBC aired Bob Vylan’s performance live, but has since removed it from iPlayer and issued an on-screen warning about “very strong and discriminatory language.” However, groups like the Campaign Against Antisemitism have criticized the network for broadcasting the act in the first place, calling the decision “outrageous.”
The group also confirmed it would file a formal complaint with the BBC and compared the controversy to a broader trend of “extremism” within the festival.
Government Officials Respond: “Revolting” and “Dangerous”
Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the chants as “revolting,” saying:
“No one wins by cheering on the deaths of others. Whether you are Israeli or Palestinian, all life is precious.”
He further criticized both the performer and the Israeli Embassy, calling for accountability on both sides of the conflict.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has reportedly demanded an explanation from BBC Director General Tim Davie regarding the broadcaster’s decision-making process.
Police Review Underway Over West Holts Performances
Both Bob Vylan and Irish rap group Kneecap are under scrutiny. Avon and Somerset Police have confirmed they are reviewing footage from Saturday’s performances to determine whether any criminal offences were committed.
Kneecap, known for their pro-Palestine stance, previously stirred controversy over chants about Prime Minister Keir Starmer and allegations of glorifying terrorist groups.
One of its members, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh (Mo Chara), is currently out on bail for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag, a proscribed terrorist organization under UK law. His next court date is set for 20 August 2025.
BBC and Glastonbury Under Pressure Amid Culture Clash
The row has intensified debates about the limits of free speech, the role of music festivals in political activism, and how broadcasters and organizers should vet content. Critics argue that incitement to violence should never be tolerated under the guise of political expression.
Meanwhile, the Met Police has decided not to pursue prosecution over earlier allegations involving Kneecap, citing time limits on legal action.
Conclusion: A Cultural Flashpoint with Global Implications
The controversy surrounding Bob Vylan’s performance at Glastonbury 2025 has spotlighted the growing tension between artistic freedom and hate speech, especially when global conflicts spill onto entertainment stages. With police investigations underway, broadcaster accountability questioned, and political leaders weighing in, the festival finds itself at the center of a national and international debate.