A punk singer is under police investigation after making controversial statements about Palestine during his performance at Glastonbury Festival.
Bobby Vylan, from the duo Bob Vylan, led crowds in chants of “free, free Palestine” and “death, death to the IDF” while performing on the West Holts Stage on Saturday, June 28.
Police Launch Investigation
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed they will review footage of the performance. Officers want to determine if any crimes were committed that require a criminal investigation.
The BBC called Vylan’s comments “deeply offensive” and said it will not make the performance available for online viewing.
Festival Condemns Performance
Glastonbury organizers said the singer “crossed a line” and they were “appalled” by his statements.
“As a festival, we stand against all forms of war and terrorism,” Glastonbury said in a statement. “We will always believe in hope, unity, peace and love.”
The festival stressed that having an artist perform does not mean they endorse their views. However, they said there is “no place at Glastonbury for antisemitism, hate speech or incitement to violence.”
Singer Defends Actions
Vylan initially responded by posting a photo of himself eating vegan ice cream, saying he was enjoying it “while zionists are crying on socials.”
He later released a longer statement on Instagram titled “I said what I said.”
In the post, Vylan talked about his daughter filling out a school survey about cafeteria food. He said listening to her voice opinions reminded him that “we may not be doomed after all.”
“Teaching our children to speak up for the change they want and need is the only way that we make this world a better place,” he wrote.
Vylan encouraged people to march, campaign, and speak out on stages when they want change. He said today’s issue might be school dinners, but tomorrow it could be foreign policy.
What Happens Next
The police investigation is ongoing. No charges have been filed yet.
Glastonbury 2025 featured nearly 4,000 performances across multiple stages and days. The festival is one of the UK’s largest and most famous music events.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions around political speech at major cultural events and the Israel-Palestine conflict.
