Hungary has barred the Irish rap group Kneecap from entering the country, citing allegations of antisemitic hate speech and support for terrorism. The ban comes ahead of the band's scheduled performance at the Sziget Festival in Budapest, with officials labeling their presence a national security threat. Kneecap, known for their pro-Palestinian messages and criticism of Israel, denied any criminal wrongdoing and accused Hungary of attempting to silence dissent over the conflict in Gaza. The decision follows recent controversies surrounding the band, including a criminal investigation in Britain that was ultimately dropped and a terrorism charge against one member, which he denies.

Original article source: https://news.sky.com/story/hungary-bans-irish-rap-group-kneecap-from-entering-country-over-antisemitic-hate-speech-13401238
Source Id: 2025-07-786178814