The United States has revoked entry visas for members of the British punk-rap group Bob Vylan following their controversial chant at the Glastonbury music festival calling for violence against the Israeli military.
Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau announced the revocation on Monday, citing the band’s actions as a “hateful tirade” and confirming that the US would not tolerate visitors who “glorify violence and hatred.” The decision comes amid the Trump administration’s broader clampdown on anti-Israel activism by foreigners, which has included canceling visas, particularly those of international students.
During their Glastonbury set, Bob Vylan led a chant of “Death to the IDF,” referring to the Israel Defense Forces. The London-based duo is known for their politically charged lyrics blending punk and rap, often addressing issues such as systemic racism.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the chant as “appalling hate speech,” while the BBC apologized for failing to cut the livestream of the performance. The incident follows earlier backlash surrounding Northern Irish hip-hop group Kneecap, who also used their platform at both Glastonbury and the Coachella festival in California to criticize Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Despite political pressure, including from Starmer, Glastonbury refused to remove Kneecap from its lineup, though the BBC opted not to air their set.
Bob Vylan and Kneecap had upcoming shows scheduled in the US later this year, but those plans are now uncertain following the visa decision.
What you should know
Bob Vylan, a British punk-rap group known for its anti-establishment lyrics, has had its US visas revoked after chanting “Death to the IDF” at Glastonbury. The move reflects a wider US policy under President Trump targeting anti-Israel activism among foreign nationals.
