Massive Attack members banned from Singapore after waving Palestinian flag
Two members of the British group received stern warnings and will be barred from returning after displaying the flag onstage, while one shouted 'Free Palestine'; authorities also banned future concerts by the band, saying foreign politics could threaten racial and religious harmony
Two members of British rock group Massive Attack will not be permitted to re-enter Singapore after unfurling a Palestinian flag during a performance. The duo received stern warnings from authorities, while the band itself has been barred from future concerts in the country. The incident occurred during the group's show in Singapore on Wednesday, with video footage showing the two musicians waving the flag and an audience member chanting, "Free Palestine."
Singapore's laws prohibit the public display of foreign flags without prior permission, and authorities suspect the musicians were expressing support for a political cause. The Infocomm Media Development Authority is investigating whether the concert violated the terms of its license. Singapore's police and media regulator stated that acts undermining racial and religious harmony will not be tolerated.
The band, known for its political activism, particularly in support of the Palestinian cause, has faced scrutiny in the past. In 2023, Singapore warned against displaying symbols related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Massive Attack's lead vocalist, Robert Del Naja, was arrested in April alongside over 200 protesters during a London demonstration supporting Palestine Action. Neither the band nor the concert organizers have commented on the Singapore authorities' decision.
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