Kneecap Rapper Faces UK Terrorism Charge Over Alleged Hezbollah Flag

 

Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, better known by his stage name Mo Chara from the Irish rap group Kneecap, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London as he sought to dismiss a terrorism charge. The 27-year-old is accused of waving the yellow flag of Hezbollah during a Kneecap concert on November 21, 2024, while allegedly shouting “Up Hamas, up Hezbollah.” Under the UK Terrorism Act, it is an offence to display items in a way that could suggest support for banned organisations.

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Mo Chara, who arrived at court wearing a keffiyeh scarf in support of the Palestinian cause, was accompanied by his bandmates Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvaí, as well as hundreds of fans. Irish music was played outside the building, while supporters waved Irish and Palestinian flags and held placards reading “Free Mo Chara.”

His defence team argued the charge should be thrown out because it was filed too late, claiming it was lodged on May 22, one day beyond the six-month legal deadline. Prosecutors, however, insist the charge was filed on May 21, keeping it within the required timeframe. Judge Paul Goldspring reserved his decision, which is expected on September 26.

The case against Mo Chara has become a lightning rod for political debate, with Kneecap arguing the charge is an attempt to silence their outspoken activism. The Belfast-based rap trio, who perform in Irish and English, are known for highlighting Irish identity, republican politics, and solidarity with Palestine in their music. They openly advocate for a united Ireland and have been highly critical of Western policy in the Middle East.

Since the charge was filed, the group has intensified its political messaging. At the Glastonbury Festival in June, they led a 30,000-strong crowd in chants against UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and accused Israel of committing war crimes in Gaza, an allegation that Israel rejects. Kneecap also frequently incorporate pro-Palestinian messages and imagery into their performances, further cementing their reputation as one of the most politically engaged music acts from Ireland.

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Outside the court, Mo Chara told supporters that the case was “a distraction from the real story” of Israel’s actions in the Palestinian territories. His bandmates and legal team maintain that the flag in question was thrown onto the stage by someone in the crowd, not deliberately displayed as a show of support.