A London court dismissed the prosecution of a member of Irish rap group Kneecap who was charged with a terrorism offense for allegedly displaying a flag of Hezbollah, a banned militant group. Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, also known as Mo Chara, was accused of waving the Hezbollah flag during a Kneecap performance in London in November 2024. The 27-year-old was charged under the Terrorism Act in May, which criminalizes displaying items that suggest support for proscribed organizations. However, the court ruled that Ó hAnnaidh was charged after the six-month time limit for such charges, making it invalid for trial.
Following the court ruling, Vince Gasparro, Canada’s parliamentary secretary, referenced the case when announcing the ban on Kneecap from entering Canada. Gasparro stated that the group had endorsed political violence, publicly supported terrorist organizations like Hezbollah and Hamas, and engaged in activities contrary to Canadian values and laws. Despite not receiving official confirmation from the Canadian government, Kneecap’s upcoming shows in Toronto and Vancouver were canceled, with ticket holders promised full refunds.
Ó hAnnaidh, along with his bandmates Naoise Ó Cairealláin (Móglaí Bap) and J.J. Ó Dochartaigh (DJ Próvaí), celebrated the court’s decision at Woolwich Crown Court. The group emphasized that the issue was not about terrorism but about raising awareness for Gaza and speaking out against injustices. Kneecap’s politically charged performances, such as at Coachella festival, have stirred controversy, particularly for their pro-Palestinian messages. The group’s U.S. tour dates were recently canceled, and they have faced backlash in Britain for controversial statements made during past concerts.
Kneecap’s outspoken stance on political issues, including their support for Palestine and criticism of government policies, has sparked heated debates and garnered both support and criticism from various audiences.