A member of the Irish-language rap collective Kneecap has appeared in a London court, facing a charge related to terrorism, as hundreds of supporters rallied outside in solidarity.
Liam O’Hanna, also known as Liam Og O hAnnaidh, is accused of displaying a flag supporting Hezbollah—an organization banned in the UK—during a concert last year.
The charge against the 27-year-old, hailing from Belfast, was initiated last month following a review by counter-terrorism officers of a video from a Kneecap performance at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, London, on November 21, 2024.
O hAnnaidh arrived at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday alongside bandmates Naoise O Caireallain and JJ O Dochartaigh, as a crowd of fans gathered outside, holding signs and flags in support.
O’Hanna (centre) arrived at court with his bandmates, including Naoise O Caireallain (below). Pics: PA
In a brief court appearance, O hAnnaidh confirmed his name and address, receiving unconditional bail until his next court date on August 20.
Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove informed the court, “This case is not about Mr. O hAnnaidh’s support for the people of Palestine or his criticisms of Israel.”
He stated that O hAnnaidh has the right to express solidarity with Palestinians but emphasized that the matter involves the display of a flag purportedly supporting Hezbollah.
“Support for one does not equate to support for the other,” Mr. Bisgrove explained.
Kneecap has previously maintained that they do not support Hezbollah or Hamas, another banned group in the UK.
As O hAnnaidh exited the courtroom, he was met with applause and cheers of “Free Palestine” from supporters.
Pic: PA
After the hearing, one of the band’s attorneys asserted that Kneecap would always advocate for freedom of expression.
He remarked, “They stand ready to defend not just their rights but the rights of artists and people globally.”
Kneecap debuted in 2017 and gained wider recognition in 2024 following the release of their first album and an award-winning film that depicted their journey and struggle to preserve the Irish language.
The group is recognized for their bold lyrics and merchandise, vocally opposing Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
O hAnnaidh performs under the alias Mo Chara, while O Caireallain is known as Moglai Bap, and O Dochartaigh as DJ Provai.
Pic: PA
The band has cultivated a following for their hedonistic anti-establishment anthems, but their controversial viewpoints have polarized opinions—leading to a spike in streaming of their tracks while simultaneously causing the cancellation of several of their shows this year.
Last year, they prevailed in a discrimination case against the UK government after Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch attempted to deny them a £14,250 funding grant while serving as business secretary.