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Massive Attack responds after Singapore ban over Palestine display

The UK band says it is "surprised and disappointed" by its treatment over shouting "free Palestine" at a concert there.

Massive Attack responds after Singapore ban over Palestine display

Massive Attack expressed surprise and disappointment over Singaporean authorities' treatment of the band following a pro-Palestine performance in the city-state. The group detained by police, isolated, and subjected to separate questioning, with some experiencing hotel room searches and temporary passport confiscation. The band held up a Palestinian flag during their July 29 show and shouted "free Palestine" alongside audience members.

Singapore, which enforces strict rules on public speech and assembly, banned the band from returning to the country indefinitely. Police spokesperson confirmed that Robert Del Naja and Grant Marshall would not be allowed to re-enter Singapore and were barred from performing there. The band described the situation as surreal and expressed pride in their impromptu expression of solidarity with the people of Palestine.

Massive Attack is known for openly expressing political stances, including on the war in Gaza. The band is currently on a world tour, with upcoming performances in Australia.

Written by urgent.news from BBC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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