Mon Jun 30 11:19:35 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The BBC is facing backlash for livestreaming a performance by the rap group Bob Vylan at Glastonbury Festival. During the performance, the group led the crowd in chants considered antisemitic, specifically targeting Israeli troops. The BBC has apologized, stating it should have cut the livestream and condemning the sentiments expressed. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also condemned the chants and demanded an explanation from the BBC. The broadcasting regulator, Ofcom, is also concerned. Bob Vylan defended the chants as speaking up for change. The incident occurs amidst ongoing conflict and casualties in Gaza since the breakdown of a ceasefire in March 2025.

**News Article:**

**BBC Apologizes for Airing Antisemitic Chants at Glastonbury Festival**

**LONDON (June 30, 2025)** – The BBC is under fire for broadcasting a performance by rap group Bob Vylan at the Glastonbury Festival on Saturday, June 28th, during which the group led crowds in chants of “Death, death to the IDF.” The broadcaster has since apologized, admitting it should have halted the livestream.

The controversial chants targeted the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and sparked widespread condemnation. The BBC stated, “The antisemitic sentiments expressed by Bob Vylan were utterly unacceptable and have no place on our airwaves.”

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed the sentiment, calling the chants “appalling hate speech” and demanding an explanation from the BBC regarding the broadcast. Ofcom, the UK’s broadcasting regulator, has also expressed its “very concerned” about the incident.

Bob Vylan, who formed in 2017 and is known for addressing issues like racism and class, defended the chants. “Teaching our children to speak up for the change they want and need is the only way that we make this world a better place,” a statement posted to social media read.

The incident comes against the backdrop of continued conflict in Gaza, where over 6,000 people have been killed and 20,000 injured since a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas collapsed in March 2025.

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