Bob Vylan say Glastonbury row is ‘distraction’ from Gaza

WorldPolitics
2 Jul 2025 • 12:56 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Punk group Bob Vylan caused controversy with chants of “Death, death to the IDF” during their Glastonbury performance on 28 June, which was broadcast live by the BBC.
  • Police are assessing the comments for potential offences, while prime minister Keir Starmer condemned the remarks as “appalling hate speech.”
  • In a new statement on 1 July, Bob Vylan defended their actions, claiming they are being “targeted for speaking up” and that the controversy is a “distraction” from the real issue.
  • The band clarified they are not advocating for the death of any race but for the dismantling of a military machine they accuse of using “unnecessary lethal force” and destroying Gaza.
  • Following the backlash, United Talent Agency (UTA) has reportedly dropped Bob Vylan, removing the act from their official website.

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