U.S. Revokes Visas of British Punk-Rap Duo Bob Vylan Over Antisemitic Outburst at Glastonbury

Bob Vylan first started back in 2017

The U.S. State Department has revoked the visas of British punk-rap duo Bob Vylan following their controversial performance at the Glastonbury Festival, during which they led chants condemned as antisemitic and inciting violence.

Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau confirmed the visa cancellations Monday, citing the band’s conduct during their Saturday set. “The State Department has revoked the U.S. visas for the members of the Bob Vylan band in light of their hateful tirade at Glastonbury, including leading the crowd in death chants,” Landau stated on social media. “Foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country.”

Bob Vylan performed Saturday at the Glastonbury Music Festival

The London-based group attempted to lead the crowd in chanting “Free, free Palestine” and “Death, death to the IDF” during their set, sparking backlash and condemnation. The performance, part of the iconic UK music festival, was widely shared on social media and drew criticism for promoting inflammatory and antisemitic rhetoric.

Bob Vylan had been scheduled to embark on a 20-date tour across the United States beginning in late October. Those plans are now uncertain due to the State Department’s actions.

The massive audience joined in with the band, shouting chants of “Free, free Palestine” and “Death, death to the IDF.”

The fallout continued in the UK, where British police launched a criminal investigation into both Bob Vylan and Irish rap group Kneecap, who also performed at Glastonbury. Kneecap reportedly led chants criticizing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and made anti-Israel statements during their set.

Law enforcement issued a statement acknowledging global concern over the incidents: “We have received a large amount of contact in relation to these events from people across the world and recognize the strength of public feeling. There is absolutely no place in society for hate.”

Bob Vylan has come under fire for leading a “Death to the IDF” chant during England’s annual Glastonbury Music Festival

The BBC, which livestreamed portions of Glastonbury, admitted it failed to act swiftly when the chants began. Although the broadcaster added a content warning during Bob Vylan’s performance, it later conceded that it should have cut the stream altogether.

“The antisemitic sentiments expressed by Bob Vylan were utterly unacceptable and have no place on our airwaves,” the BBC said. “The team were dealing with a live situation but with hindsight we should have pulled the stream during the performance. We regret this did not happen.”

The incident has reignited debates about hate speech, freedom of expression in live entertainment, and the role of platforms and broadcasters in moderating politically charged performances.

Bob Vylan performs on the West Holts stage