Irish Rappers Kneecap Denounce Netanyahu at UK Festival

Irish rap group Kneecap used their performance at the Reading Festival in England to express pro-Palestinian sentiments and criticize Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During their set on August 29, 2026, the band chanted "Free Palestine" and "Fuck Benjamin Netanyahu," while a Palestinian flag was displayed on the DJ booth. The group's members stated their intention to use the stage to speak out for what they believe is right, drawing parallels between their own experiences with displacement and colonialism and the situation in Palestine.

Kneecap also directed criticism at British politicians, reportedly chanting an offensive slogan against UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham and encouraging the audience to join in. Their performance concluded with a song addressing the media scrutiny and political backlash they have faced for their pro-Palestinian statements.

This is not the first time Kneecap's political statements have caused controversy. In 2024, one member was investigated for displaying a Hezbollah flag at a London concert. The case was dropped in September 2025 due to procedural irregularities, and a subsequent appeal by the Crown Prosecution Service was rejected by the High Court in March 2026.