Kneecap’s Support of Palestine is Unwavering

Kneecap is an Irish hip hop group that has been notorious for their demonstrations of protest as far back as 2017; they make it clear that they are no stranger to controversy for their views, though none have taken off as far as this one. During their venue at Coachella 2025 in April, however, they displayed a blatant, unapologetic message in bright, bold letters reading, “F–k Israel; Free Palestine.” Even with backlash from those who have found their message distasteful, they show resistance to adversity and stand firm on this action.

This showcase quickly garnered attention from many who were at the event as well as media outlets. A large portion of the audience chanted “free Palestine” while others took to social media to voice their own opposition to the message, some claiming that the anti-Israel message is anti-Semitic or even “aggressive.” To that, the band proudly says, “Statements aren't aggressive, murdering 20,000 children is though," (BBC). 

As of late, the band’s leader, Mo Chara, has been issuing out responses to recent criticisms regarding their stance: “We believe we have an obligation to use our platform when we can to raise the issue of Palestine, and it was important for us to speak out at Coachella as the USA is the main funder and supplier of weapons to Israel as they commit genocide in Gaza,” he says (Rolling Stone). “As I said from the stage, ‘The U.S. government could stop the genocide tomorrow.’ It’s important that young Americans hear and know it.”

Though many have opposed their position as well as their message, they have stayed strong long before their Coachella demonstrations and continue to do so even after. They have been met with an onslaught of death threats and smear campaigns, yet they still carry on their message with many groups, including Massive Attack, an English trip hop band, backing them up.

They didn’t get everything out at Coachella; a majority of their messages were omitted after their first showcase. In fact, the rest of Kneepcap’s major gigs had been cancelled quickly after the event and their visas were quickly revoked by the US government.

Still, it will not change the fact that they have established their ground and they will continue to stand in it. Their resistance rings strong through the media and their messages.

Image Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.