U.S. Bars Bob Vylan After Controversial Glastonbury Performance Sparks Outrage

The U.S. State Department has revoked the visas of British punk-rap duo Bob Vylan following a controversial performance at the Glastonbury Festival that included chants widely condemned as antisemitic. During their set on the West Holts Stage, frontman Bobby Vylan led the crowd in chants such as “Free, free Palestine” and “Death, death to the IDF,” referencing the Israel Defense Forces.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau announced the decision, stating that “foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country”. The duo had been scheduled to tour the U.S. later this year.

The BBC, which broadcast the performance live, later issued a statement expressing regret for not cutting the stream, calling the remarks “deeply offensive” and “utterly unacceptable”. British police have also launched an investigation into the incident.

Bobby Vylan responded defiantly on social media, writing, “I said what I said,” and emphasized the importance of speaking out for change.

The incident has reignited debate over the boundaries of artistic expression, political protest, and hate speech—especially on high-profile stages like Glastonbury.