by: The Washington Eye
At this year’s Glastonbury Festival held at Worthy Farm in Somerset, UK, the politically outspoken punk-rap duo Bob Vylan sparked a wave of both condemnation and celebration after frontman Bobby Vylan led the crowd in chanting “Death, death to the IDF,” referring to the Israeli Defense Forces. The controversial moment took place on 28th June, 2025, Saturday evening at the West Holts stage and was broadcast live on BBC platforms, prompting immediate backlash from festival organizers, British politicians, and the Israeli Embassy. However, it also garnered immense praise from pro-Palestinian supporters within the crowd and around the world, igniting a fresh debate over freedom of expression and political activism in art.
Bob Vylan, a London-based duo made up of vocalist Bobby Vylan and drummer Bobbie Vylan, are well known for their fusion of punk and grime and for delivering bold, politically charged messages through their music. Their set ended with strong support for Palestine, with messages like “The UN calls it a genocide. The BBC calls it a conflict” displayed on stage screens. As Bobby Vylan urged the crowd to chant against the Israeli military, the atmosphere turned electric. Thousands of festivalgoers cheered and echoed the slogans, many waving Palestinian flags and raising their fists in support. Online, the moment went viral, with hashtags like #FreePalestine and #BobVylan trending on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok. One festival attendee commented that it was “uncomfortable but necessary,” and others praised the band for speaking out when many others remain silent.
In contrast, Glastonbury’s organizers were swift and firm in their response. In an official statement, they expressed being “appalled” and stated that there is no place at the festival for antisemitism, hate speech, or incitement to violence. The BBC, which aired the performance live, soon removed it from its iPlayer platform and displayed a warning on screen about “very strong and discriminatory language” during the broadcast. The incident drew widespread political condemnation. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the chant “appalling hate speech,” while Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy demanded an explanation from BBC Director General Tim Davie on how such language was allowed to air live. Health Secretary Wes Streeting echoed similar views, calling for both the BBC and Glastonbury to take accountability.
The Israeli Embassy in London issued a statement expressing that it was “deeply disturbed” by the rhetoric, labeling it “inflammatory” and an incitement to violence. It emphasized that such slogans not only target Israeli soldiers but are a threat to the state’s existence and safety. Meanwhile, Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that they are reviewing the footage to determine if Bob Vylan’s actions fall under hate speech or criminal incitement.
Despite the political fallout, public reaction remained sharply divided. Many praised Bob Vylan for their courage, describing their stance as a necessary act of resistance in the face of global injustice. Videos from the performance show a visibly emotional crowd chanting in unison and embracing the pro-Palestinian message. Supporters argue that artists should not be silenced for opposing what they perceive as state-sponsored violence and military oppression. One attendee stated, “Bob Vylan said what millions of us feel. Silence is violence.” Activist groups hailed the moment as a victory for free speech and solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Bob Vylan was not the only act to speak out. The Irish-language rap group Kneecap also led pro-Palestinian chants during their set, despite controversy over one member’s legal issues in Northern Ireland. British-Pakistani singer Nadine Shah read a powerful open letter criticizing UK complicity in the Gaza war, further reinforcing the political tone of the festival. Folk singer Billy Bragg defended the performances, saying Glastonbury has always been a space for challenging power and speaking uncomfortable truths.
As Glastonbury wraps up, the fallout from Bob Vylan’s chant continues to ripple across media, politics, and public discourse. The incident has reignited long-standing debates over the limits of artistic expression, the fine line between protest and hate speech, and the role of cultural platforms in political advocacy. Whether viewed as a dangerous incitement or a bold act of resistance, Bob Vylan’s performance ensured that this year’s festival will be remembered not just for its music, but for igniting a fierce global conversation on Palestine, power, and free speech.
