Once again, the Irish hip-hop group Kneecap has shown the world what protest against injustice can look like—this time by making a bold pro-Gaza statement on stage in Oslo, Norway, last Friday. The band not only reaffirmed their stance on Palestine but also openly criticized Norway’s government for supporting Israel, right on Norwegian soil.
Before the performance began, a screen lit up with a strongly worded message accusing the Norwegian government of aiding genocide by investing its sovereign wealth—specifically through the “Oil Pension Fund.” The message claimed, “In the past 21 months, Israel has killed more than 80,000 innocent people.” The audience responded with loud applause and cheers, signaling their solidarity with the band.
Just last month, Hungary banned Kneecap from entering the country for three years over accusations of antisemitism. The group was scheduled to perform at Hungary’s Sziget Festival on August 11, but more than 150 local artists and musicians signed a petition opposing their appearance. In a statement, Kneecap called the ban “another attempt to silence those protesting the ongoing genocide against Palestinians.” Festival organizers labeled the ban “unnecessary and regrettable,” saying the band had assured them their performance would not violate Sziget’s values or Hungarian law.
Kneecap’s outspoken support for Gaza has also put them at odds with the UK government. The tension began in 2024 after their “Farewell to the Union” tour. Following the tour, the UK government revoked a £15,000 arts grant that had already been approved by an independent board. The Department for Business and Trade, led by Kemi Badenoch, blocked the payment, stating, “We will not hand British taxpayers’ money to artists who deny the existence of the United Kingdom.” The band took the matter to court—and won. The court ruled the government’s action unlawful, marking a significant victory for artistic freedom.
The controversies didn’t end there. Later in 2024, at a London concert, member Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh (known on stage as Mo Chara) displayed a Hezbollah flag, leading to charges under anti-terrorism laws. Last week, Westminster Magistrates’ Court granted him bail, with a hearing scheduled for August 20. Kneecap has dismissed the accusations as “false and baseless,” vowing to fight them in court.
On April 18, the band stirred more debate in California by condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza during a show. American TV personality Sharon Osbourne expressed outrage on social media, accusing the band of making “politically aggressive statements” and “openly supporting a terrorist organization.” She even called for their visas to be revoked. The US State Department declined to comment on the case specifically but noted that visa cancellations can be considered for reasons including national security, public safety, or violations of visa terms.
