Canada barred the Irish-language rap group Kneecap from entering the country on Friday, saying the band has endorsed political violence and terrorism. The government cited statements the group has made that critics say appear to glorify militant groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah.
Liberal lawmaker Vince Gasparro, parliamentary secretary for combating crime, said Kneecap publicly displayed support for terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah and Hamas that goes beyond artistic expression. “Canada stands firmly against hate speech, incitement to violence and the glorification of terrorism,” Gasparro said in a video posted to social media. “Political debate and free speech are vital to our democracy, but open endorsements of terrorist groups are not free speech.”
Kneecap has said critics are trying to silence the band because of its support for the Palestinian cause throughout Israel's war in Gaza, adding that they do not support Hezbollah or Hamas nor condone violence. In a statement on Instagram, the group said Gasparro's comments are “wholly untrue and deeply malicious,” signaling intent to take legal action against the lawmaker. “We have today instructed our lawyers to initiate legal action against you,” the band said. “We will be relentless in defending ourselves against baseless accusations to silence our opposition to a genocide being committed by Israel.”
Kneecap was scheduled to perform next month in Toronto and Vancouver. The music act previously drew attention after performing at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California in April, where members accused Israel—backed by the United States—of genocide against Palestinians, a stance that sparked calls for U.S. visas to be revoked and contributed to several tour cancellations.
In Canada, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs said the decision is a stand against incitement, hate and radicalization, while B'nai Brith Canada declared it a “victory” for those fighting antisemitism. Kneecap has faced scrutiny in Europe as well; Hungary previously banned the group.
The case underscores the tension between freedom of expression in music and national security concerns, particularly content tied to ongoing conflicts. The group maintains it supports a Palestinian cause and says its art should not be construed as an endorsement of violence. The government says the ban will be enforced.