Irish rap trio Kneecap cancels US tour over terrorism charge

Irish rap trio Kneecap has cancelled all 15 sold-out US tour dates scheduled for October 2025, citing the proximity of band member Mo Chara’s terrorism charge hearing in London. The group, known for their outspoken support of Palestinian causes, called the charges against 27-year-old Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh a “witch-hunt” by the British government.irishexaminer

In a statement posted to social media on Monday, the Belfast-based trio announced that “due to the proximity of our next court hearing in London to the first date of the tour, as the British government continues its witch-hunt, we will have to cancel all 15 US tour dates in October”. The band expressed disappointment over cancelling shows that were sold out to “tens of thousands of fans” but promised to “embark on an even bigger tour” once they win their court case.consequence

The Terrorism Charge

Mo Chara faces charges under the UK’s Terrorism Act for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag at a London concert in November 2024. The Metropolitan Police launched an investigation in April 2025 after video footage from the O2 Forum concert in Kentish Town surfaced online. Hezbollah has been designated a proscribed terrorist organization in the UK since 2019.independent

Ó hAnnaidh appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 20, where hundreds of supporters gathered outside waving Palestinian and Irish flags and chanting “Free Mo Chara”. His defense team argued the case should be dismissed on technical grounds, claiming the charge was filed one day after the six-month statutory deadline. The prosecution maintains the charge was filed within the proper timeframe.rte

Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring reserved judgment and scheduled the next hearing for September 26, when he will rule on whether he has jurisdiction to try the case.clashmusic

Ongoing Legal Battle

Kneecap has consistently denied supporting Hamas or Hezbollah, describing the charges as politically motivated retaliation for their criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and support for Palestinian causes. The group called the case a “carnival of distraction” from the war in Gaza.independent

The band has faced increasing scrutiny from UK authorities following their performances at major festivals. They were briefly investigated over their Glastonbury Festival set in June, where they led chants of “Free Palestine” and criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, though those charges were later dropped. They were also barred from entering Hungary for the Sziget Festival.yahoo

Tour Impact and Future Plans

The cancelled US tour was set to begin October 1 at New York’s Rooftop at Pier 17, with all 15 dates completely sold out. However, the group confirmed their four Canadian shows in Toronto and Vancouver will proceed as planned. The band also promised to share “something very special” with US fans next week to “still link in” with American supporters in October.consequence

According to The New York Times, the decision underscores how the ongoing Gaza conflict continues to create tensions within the music industry, particularly affecting artists who have taken strong political stances. The cancellation comes as Kneecap prepares for what they view as a crucial legal battle that could determine their ability to tour internationally.exclaim