Kneecap Rapper Liam O’Hanna Faces Terrorism Charge Over Hezbollah Flag Display

[Social Media]

 

Kneecap Rapper Liam O’Hanna Faces Terrorism Charge Over Hezbollah Flag Display

 

Liam O’Hanna, a prominent figure in the Belfast-based rap group Kneecap, has been formally charged with a terrorism-related offence following an incident at a London gig. The 27-year-old artist, known for his politically charged lyrics and provocative performances, was charged by post for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during a performance last year.

 

 

The incident reportedly occurred on November 21, 2024, at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, London. According to the charge, O’Hanna “displayed an article, namely a flag, in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that he is a supporter of a proscribed organisation, namely Hizballah.” The allegation falls under section 13(1)(b) and (3) of the Terrorism Act 2000, which criminalizes the expression of support for banned groups through the display of associated symbols or items.

 

 

The charge, delivered by post, underscores the legal seriousness with which UK authorities view any perceived endorsement of organisations classified as terrorist entities. Hezbollah, a Lebanon-based militant and political group, has been a proscribed organisation in its entirety under UK law since 2019. Prior to that, only its military wing had been banned. The law now considers any public display of support for the group, including flags and emblems, as a potential criminal act.

 

 

Kneecap, formed in Belfast and known for their controversial blend of Irish republican themes and hip-hop beats, have gained a significant following in recent years. Their performances often confront issues surrounding British rule in Northern Ireland and Irish identity, leading to both praise and criticism. O’Hanna, as one of the group’s central figures, has never shied away from provocative political commentary, often incorporating it into his lyrics and stage presence.

 

This legal development comes at a time when Kneecap is enjoying rising international attention, with their unapologetically political message resonating with a broad base of listeners. However, the group has also sparked backlash, particularly from unionist and loyalist communities, for their perceived glorification of paramilitarism and for challenging the status quo in Northern Ireland.

 

At present, neither Liam O’Hanna nor Kneecap have publicly commented on the charge. It remains to be seen how the case will proceed and what impact it might have on the group’s public standing and ongoing music projects.

 

The charge raises wider questions about the boundaries between political expression and legal limits under the UK's terrorism legislation. Critics of the Terrorism Act have long warned that its provisions could stifle legitimate political dissent or cultural expression, particularly in cases involving symbols that carry different meanings in different contexts. Supporters of the law argue that such measures are necessary to curb the influence and visibility of terrorist organisations.

 

As the case moves forward, it is likely to reignite debate over freedom of speech, political art, and the ongoing tension between national security and civil liberties in the United Kingdom.

 

Related Topic:

Irish Rap Group Given 14K by Labour Face Terror police investigation for Pro Hamas Chants

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Times  2025-05-23

 

 

[mikeymike100]

Well free speech or not, there are consequences?

[MalcolmB]

4 hours ago, Social Media said:

Their performances often confront issues surrounding British rule in Northern Ireland and Irish identity

The real reason he is being targeted.

A stitch up.

[The Cyclist]

1 hour ago, BangkokHank said:

Then shouldn't anyone displaying an Israeli flag be charged with supporting genocide?

 

The difference, for those not aware, is that Hezbollah is a proscribed Organisation in the UK. Showing support for it is a criminal offence.

 

To the best of my Knowledge, Israel is not a proscribed Country under UK law, therefore displaying an Israeli flag is not a criminal offence.

[loong]

2 hours ago, BangkokHank said:

Then shouldn't anyone displaying an Israeli flag be charged with supporting genocide?

Israel flag does not indicate support of genocide as Israel has not committed genocide and does not intend to commit genocide.

Hamas, on the other hand have announced their intent to kill all Jews many times. Thankfully they have the desire but not the ability.

[Social Media]

Some off topic and inflammatory posts about Israeli and the Israeli flag have been removed. The topic here is:

 

 

Kneecap Rapper Liam O’Hanna Faces Terrorism Charge Over Hezbollah Flag Display

 

[RayC]

Another example of Two-tier Britain ... oh, wait ....

[James105]

2 hours ago, RayC said:

Another example of Two-tier Britain ... oh, wait ....

 

They called for people to murder MPs didn't they but I don't see them getting charged for that so yes, it is 2 tier.  Also they haven't been sentenced yet so even in the unlikely event it goes to court I expect no more than a soft telling off and zero jail time.  In order to be charged with a speech offense it has to meet the following criteria:

 

1. White person said something

2. Against a (perceived) non-white person/group

3. Who is not a leftist.

 

Perhaps you can debunk this by providing a similar example to Lucy Connolly who did not meet that criteria as there are plenty of black activists & islamists & trans folk out there who have demanded the killing of white people or MPs or even JK Rowling and not a peep has been heard from CPS.   Here are some examples I have to hand: