Irish rap group Kneecap have been banned from entering Hungary ahead of their scheduled appearance at a music festival. The Belfast trio were due to perform at Sziget Festival on August 11 and remain listed on the event's website.
Government spokesman Zoltan Kovacs announced the decision on social media platform X, citing the group's "repeated engagement in antisemitic hate speech supporting terrorism and terrorist groups". He declared that Hungary has "zero tolerance for antisemitism in any form".
Three-year ban imposed
The ban extends for three years, with Kovacs warning that "if they enter, expulsion will follow under international norms". He described their planned performance as posing "a national security threat" to Hungary.
Kneecap have faced multiple show cancellations in recent months, including appearances at TRNSMT festival in Glasgow and the Eden Project in Cornwall. The group claims these cancellations form part of a smear campaign against them due to their vocal support for Palestine and criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza, which they describe as genocide.
Terror charge allegations
The trio comprises Liam Og O hAnnaidh, Naoise O Caireallain, and JJ O Dochartaigh, who formed the group in Belfast and released their first single in 2017. O hAnnaidh, who performs under the name Mo Chara, was recently charged with a terror offence relating to allegedly displaying a flag in support of Hezbollah.
In May, the Metropolitan Police confirmed the group were under investigation by counter-terrorism officers after videos emerged allegedly showing them shouting "Up Hamas, up Hezbollah" and "Kill your local MP". The group subsequently apologised to the families of murdered MPs and stated they have "never supported" Hamas or Hezbollah, both of which are banned organisations in the UK.
Police investigation concluded
Police also investigated their performance at Glastonbury Festival in June. However, Avon and Somerset Police confirmed last week they would be taking no further action against the group.
The Hungarian ban represents the latest controversy surrounding Kneecap, who have become increasingly outspoken about Middle Eastern politics alongside their music career.
(PA/London) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
