US revokes Bob Vylan's visas over Glastonbury chant
Performing on the festival's West Holts Stage on Saturday, the artist shouted 'Free, free Palestine' before encouraging the audience to chant, 'Death, death to the IDF (Israel Defense Forces).' Video of the moment quickly spread online, sparking backlash.
A post shared by Bob Vylan (@bobbyvylan)
On Monday, US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau announced the visa revocation on social media platform X, stating, 'Foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country.' He confirmed that the State Department had rescinded the band's US visas due to their 'hateful tirade.'
The group was scheduled to begin a US tour in late October, as previously announced on their official Instagram account.
The visa decision comes amid growing scrutiny from US authorities under what they describe as a tougher stance on individuals accused of promoting anti-Semitism or inciting violence. The State Department has recently implemented stricter policies on visa restrictions in such cases.
Bobby Vylan released a video statement on social media on Monday.
"First it was Kneecap, now it's us two," he said.
"Regardless of how it was said, calling for an end to the slaughter of innocents is never wrong. To civilians of Israel, understand this anger is not directed at you, and don't let your government persuade you that a call against an army is a call against the people.
Meanwhile, UK police are reportedly investigating the incident.
Their Glastonbury set is the latest in a wave of pro-Palestinian expressions from artists amid Israel's ongoing war in Gaza.
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