• UK counter-terrorism police are investigating Kneecap over videos containing controversial statements regarding political figures and banned organizations.
• Several gigs have been canceled due to the controversy, sparking debate about freedom of expression and censorship.
• Kneecap has apologized to the families of murdered MPs but claims their statements were taken out of context and weaponized.

The Irish rap group Kneecap is under investigation by UK counter-terrorism police following the emergence of videos showing the band making controversial statements at concerts. The videos allegedly depict members of the group calling for violence against political figures and expressing support for banned organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah. This controversy has led to the cancellation of several of Kneecap's scheduled performances and sparked a wider debate about freedom of expression, censorship, and the responsibility of artists regarding their public statements.

• What: UK counter-terrorism police are investigating Kneecap for alleged incitement to violence and support for banned organizations. The band's gigs are being canceled, and a debate about free speech has ensued.
• Who: Kneecap (Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, DJ Próvaí), UK counter-terrorism police, Kemi Badenoch, Katie Amess, Brendan Cox, various musicians (Primal Scream, Fontaines D.C., Paul Weller), and festival organizers.
• When: The controversy began in late April 2025, with the emergence of videos from November 2023 and a Coachella performance in April 2025. The police investigation was announced on May 1, 2025.
• Where: The events have taken place in the UK, Northern Ireland, Germany, and the US (Coachella). The investigation is being conducted in London.

The Kneecap controversy raises complex questions about freedom of speech, artistic expression, and the potential consequences of inflammatory statements. The investigation by counter-terrorism police highlights the seriousness with which authorities are taking the alleged incitement to violence. The cancellation of gigs and the debate surrounding festival appearances underscore the pressure on cultural institutions to balance artistic freedom with public safety and sensitivity. The band's claims of being taken out of context and the support they've received from other artists further complicate the narrative, suggesting a broader conflict between artistic expression and political correctness.

The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP.

We do not, and have never, supported Hamas or Hezbollah.

(It) poses a direct threat to the safety and well-being of elected officials and the democratic institutions they represent

In a democracy, no political figures or political parties should have the right to dictate who does and does not play at music festivals or gigs that will be enjoyed by thousands of people.

Gaza is the story. Genocide is the story.

The Kneecap controversy continues to unfold, with the police investigation ongoing and the debate about freedom of expression intensifying. The band's future performances remain uncertain, and the broader implications for artistic expression and political discourse are yet to be fully realized. The situation highlights the challenges of navigating sensitive political issues in the public sphere and the potential consequences of controversial statements.