US revokes visas for Bob Vylan after antisemitic chants at Glastonbury
- Bob Vylan's performance at the Glastonbury Festival included leading chants that received widespread condemnation.
- The US State Department announced it revoked the visas of the band members due to their inflammatory comments.
- The incident highlights ongoing tensions related to politics and free expression in the context of the festival's legacy.
In the United Kingdom, at the renowned Glastonbury Festival, a controversial incident unfolded during a performance by the rap-punk duo Bob Vylan, who led the crowd in chants of 'death to the IDF' against the Israel Defense Forces. This incident occurred on a recent Saturday, amid heightened tensions surrounding the Gaza conflict that have stirred strong emotions across the globe. The festival, known for its political activism and support for various progressive causes, saw significant backlash against Bob Vylan's actions, which were perceived as incitement to violence and antisemitism. The backlash prompted Glastonbury organizers Michael and Emily Eavis to condemn the chants, expressing that such sentiments have no place within the festival that champions peace and inclusivity. The performance, streamed live by the BBC, drew sharp criticism, with the broadcaster admitting that it should have cut the segment when the offensive comments were made, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression but denouncing incitement to violence.