فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Fes News – Follow-up
In a notable escalation reflecting the sensitivity of the Palestinian issue and its impact on the global artistic scene, the U.S. Department of State announced the cancellation of entry visas for the British punk band Bob Vylan, following chants the band led against the Israeli occupation army during their performance at the famous Glastonbury Festival in the UK.
The band sparked widespread controversy after their lead singer, Bobby Vylan, led the crowd in chanting “Death, death to the Israeli Defense Forces,” which festival organizers deemed a breach of conduct. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the chant as “horrific,” and the British police have launched a criminal investigation into the incident on charges of incitement to hatred.
The U.S. responded firmly, with Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau stating, “Foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors in our country,” confirming the cancellation of the band’s visas. Bob Vylan had planned a fall tour in the United States.
The band defended their position, clarifying in a statement that the chant was not directed against Jews or any ethnic group but was a call to “dismantle a violent military machine.” They added that the targeting of the band is an attempt “to cover up the real story” and divert attention from crimes committed in Gaza.
This incident comes amid widespread solidarity with Palestine witnessed at the Glastonbury Festival, where many attendees waved Palestinian flags, and other artists spoke out in support of the cause. Other musical groups noted that the focus on Bob Vylan is an attempt to portray the broad support for Palestine as isolated incidents.
This marks the first time the U.S. Department of State has publicly banned a music band due to their political stance, opening a broader debate on freedom of expression and the restrictions faced by artists supporting the Palestinian cause in Western countries.
from: fesnews
