The Trump administration has revoked the US visas of punk-rap duo Bob Vylan after they sparked outrage with anti-Israel chants at the UK’s Glastonbury Festival.
Death Chant Controversy
Bobby Vylan, the lead singer, led the crowd in chanting “death, death to the IDF” – a reference to Israel’s military, the Israel Defense Forces.
The chant was met with widespread backlash, prompting the State Department to take action.
The duo was scheduled to perform in Boston, New York City, and Washington, D.C. this fall, but their inflammatory remarks have put a halt to their US tour.
A Shift in State Department Policy
The administration’s move marks a significant departure from decades of State Department policy, which kept visa determinations private.
“Foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country,” Landau wrote.
Focusing on National Security
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce defended the administration’s decision, stating that they’re not telling people what they can or can’t say, but rather focusing on national security concerns.
“It’s about the issue of national security, issues of violence, increase in antisemitism, and terrorism in general,” Bruce explained.
The Duo’s Response
Bobby Vylan defended his remarks on Instagram, stating, “I said what I said.” He believes that teaching children to speak up for change is essential for creating a better world.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the BBC have also condemned the chants, labeling them “appalling hate speech.”