Kneecap Rapper Appears in London Court over Hezbollah Terror Charge

Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known as Mo Chara and a member of the Irish rap trio Kneecap, is facing terrorism charges for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag at a London gig in November 2024, an act considered a criminal offense in the UK since Hezbollah's ban in 2019. He denies the charge, asserting that the flag was thrown on stage and describing the prosecution as politically motivated and a diversion from the Gaza crisis. His legal team argues the charges were brought after the six-month statutory limit for terrorism offenses, seeking to have the case dismissed. Despite the controversy, supporters have rallied outside Westminster Magistrates' Court in London and Dublin, creating a festival-like atmosphere during previous appearances. Prosecutors clarify that the case focuses on the alleged support for a proscribed organization rather than O hAnnaidh's right to express opinions on the Israel-Palestine conflict. High-profile lawyers, including Gareth Peirce, are defending O hAnnaidh, and if the case proceeds, a not guilty plea is expected, potentially leading to a trial.