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Glastonbury, England – Organisers of the iconic Glastonbury Festival have issued a strong condemnation following an incident during a performance by the punk-rap duo Bob Vylan. The band’s on-stage chanting, which included the phrase “death to the Israeli military,” has sparked widespread outrage and prompted a swift response from festival leadership.

In a statement released on Sunday, Glastonbury organisers expressed their “appall” at the chanting, asserting that the festival grounds are “no place for antisemitism or incitement of hatred.” The statement emphasized the festival’s commitment to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all attendees, artists, and staff.

The incident occurred during Bob Vylan’s set on Saturday, and quickly gained traction on social media, drawing criticism from various sources. The chant, widely perceived as inflammatory and potentially inciting violence, directly targeted the Israeli military. While Bob Vylan have not yet issued a formal statement addressing the controversy, the festival organisers were quick to act, clarifying their position and reaffirming their values.

“We are deeply saddened and concerned by this incident,” said a spokesperson for Glastonbury. “Our festival has always been a platform for diverse voices and artistic expression, but it is absolutely unacceptable to use that platform to promote hate speech or incite violence against any group or individual. We stand firmly against antisemitism and any form of discrimination.”

The festival organisers have confirmed they are reviewing the incident and considering what further action may be necessary. This could include potential sanctions against the band, although details remain undisclosed at this time. The incident has reignited discussions surrounding freedom of expression versus the responsibility of artists to avoid harmful rhetoric, particularly in a public forum like Glastonbury.

Glastonbury Festival, renowned for its eclectic lineup and vast crowds, attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The incident has cast a shadow over what is usually a celebration of music and culture, highlighting the challenges of balancing artistic freedom with the need to maintain a respectful and inclusive environment. The festival’s response is being closely watched by other major music events globally, as they grapple with similar concerns about hate speech and political messaging on stage.

The statement concluded with a renewed commitment to ensuring all attendees feel safe and welcome at Glastonbury, and a promise to continue working to promote tolerance and understanding within the festival community. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need to actively challenge all forms of prejudice and discrimination.