Kneecap Rapper Mo Chara Bailed in Terror Case Over
Hezbollah Flag
Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, better known by his stage name Mo Chara, a member of the
politically vocal Irish rap group Kneecap, has been granted bail following a terror-related
charge in the UK. The charge has sparked major debate about freedom of speech, protest
through art, and the fine line between political expression and criminal offense.
What’s the Case About?
In November 2024, Kneecap performed at a concert at the O₂ Forum in Kentish Town, London.
During the show, Mo Chara was seen holding a Hezbollah flag and allegedly shouted slogans
showing support for Hezbollah and Hamas. Both groups are banned (proscribed) in the UK
due to terrorism links.
After a video of the incident surfaced, the UK’s Metropolitan Police Counter-Terrorism
Command launched an investigation. In June 2025, Mo Chara was formally charged under
Section 13 of the UK Terrorism Act 2000, which prohibits displaying or promoting
support for banned terrorist organizations.
Court Hearing and Bail
On June 18, 2025, Mo Chara appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London. He
was granted unconditional bail, with a court date set for August 20, 2025.
The prosecution emphasized that this was not about free speech or criticism of Israel,
but specifically about promoting a banned terrorist group in public.
Support and Protests Outside Court
Hundreds of supporters gathered outside the court, waving Palestinian and Irish flags, and
chanting slogans like “Free Mo Chara” and “Defend Kneecap”. A small counter-protest in
support of Israel was also present. Police kept the groups separate to avoid clashes.
What Kneecap Says
Kneecap, known for their strong political views and support for Irish unity and Palestinian
rights, defended Mo Chara. They claim:
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The flag was thrown onto the stage by a fan, and it was not part of any planned message.
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The charge is an attempt to silence political voices and punish Irish identity.
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They will continue performing, including upcoming appearances at Glastonbury Festival and Wembley Arena.
Legal Background
Under the UK Terrorism Act 2000, Section 13 makes it a crime to publicly show support for a
banned group. Conviction can lead to a fine or prison sentence. The charge is handled by a
district judge, not a jury.
Why This Matters
This case is not just about a rapper and a flag—it’s about:
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The limits of artistic and political expression.
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Whether musicians and performers can be punished for symbolic protest.
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The use of anti-terrorism laws in political cases.
For many, it’s a test of whether the UK is upholding freedom of speech—or stifling it in the
name of national security.
What’s Next?
Mo Chara is set to appear in court again on August 20, 2025. Until then, he remains free and
will continue performing.
The outcome of this case could shape how political art and protest are treated in the UK for
years to come.
Stay tuned as we follow this developing story that sits at the intersection of music, politics,
and law.