Singapore Investigates Massive Attack for Raising Palestinian Flag During Concert

Singaporean authorities have launched an investigation into the British band Massive Attack after members were seen raising a Palestinian flag during a recent concert in the city-state. The incident occurred during the band's only Singapore show this week, where footage showed band members Robert Del Naja (3D) and Grant Marshall (Daddy G) displaying the flag amid audience chants supporting Palestine. Singapore enforces strict laws against public demonstrations and the display of foreign national symbols to maintain its multicultural harmony. Authorities confirmed to BBC that complaints were filed and the investigation is ongoing, including a review by the media regulator on whether the band violated their performance license conditions.

Massive Attack is currently on a global tour, with their next scheduled performance in Seoul, South Korea. It remains unclear if the band or their production team have been detained or restricted from leaving Singapore pending the investigation. The band is known for its outspoken political stances, including support for Palestinians; lead singer Robert Del Naja was arrested in London in April during a pro-Palestinian protest and has previously blocked Israeli listeners from accessing their music on Spotify. Past performances have included controversial imagery related to Hamas and other political figures.

Singapore prohibits the public display of foreign national symbols without special permission, with penalties including fines up to $390 and imprisonment up to six months. The government maintains a firm policy to prevent external conflicts from disrupting local social harmony, especially regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. In 2023, Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs advised against public displays or wearing items related to the conflict. The local police have also investigated digital and physical activities linked to the war and banned public gatherings on the issue. Meanwhile, Singapore continues to support a two-state solution and has sanctioned far-right activists for violence against Palestinians, also backing full UN membership for the Palestinian Authority.