Canadian Ban Prevents Kneecap from Performing Amid Controversy

The Irish rap group Kneecap has been denied entry into Canada, effectively banning them from performing scheduled shows in October. This decision follows allegations that the trio has been involved in glorifying terrorist organizations, specifically Hezbollah and Hamas.

Kneecap, consisting of members Naoise O Caireallain, Liam Og O hAnnaidh, and JJ O’Dochartaigh, gained attention this year for their strong pro-Palestinian stance. The controversy escalated when Liam Og O hAnnaidh, also known as Mo Chara, faced court proceedings in the UK for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag, which is classified as a terrorist organization in that country.

In a video statement released on September 19, 2025, Vince Gasparro, Canada’s parliamentary secretary, announced the ban, citing actions and statements from Kneecap that “are contrary to Canadian values and laws” and have caused “deep alarm” within the government. He stated, “The group has amplified political violence and publicly displayed support for terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah and Hamas.”

Gasparro emphasized that the Canadian government “will not tolerate the advocating of political violence, terrorism, or Anti-Semitism.” He further asserted that the group’s actions do not fall under protected forms of expression, framing them instead as dangerous endorsements of violence and hate.

In response, Kneecap took to social media to contest the statements made by Gasparro. They described his comments as “wholly untrue and deeply malicious,” asserting that no member of the group has ever been convicted of any crime in any country. The trio has announced plans to pursue legal action against the Canadian government, vowing to use any financial gains to support child amputees in Gaza.

The controversy surrounding Kneecap is not new. Earlier this year, their performances at Coachella garnered backlash, leading to demands for their visas to be revoked in the United States. Additionally, they were forced to cancel a planned tour due to a court appearance scheduled for August in London.

Recently, the group expressed solidarity with the band the Mary Wallopers, who claimed their performance at Victorious Festival was cut short after they displayed a Palestine flag. Kneecap stated, “Speak up against genocide in England and you’re treated like a criminal. Up the Mary Wallopers. Free Palestine.”

Despite the challenges, Kneecap is scheduled to continue their tour across the UK in November, with shows planned in cities including Manchester, Birmingham, Sheffield, Newcastle, and Glasgow. The ongoing situation raises questions about the intersection of art, political expression, and national security in contemporary discourse.