Kneecap apologizes to families of murdered MPs, denies supporting Hamas

Irish rap trio Kneecap has issued an apology to the families of murdered MPs Jo Cox and Sir David Amess after backlash over past concert footage in which a member appeared to call for violence against MPs. The band clarified in multiple statements that their remarks were taken out of context and insisted they do not and have never supported Hamas or Hezbollah, explicitly condemning all attacks on civilians. Facing widespread condemnation and a police investigation, Kneecap rejected accusations of inciting violence or supporting terrorism, describing the controversy as a result of deliberate misrepresentation by establishment figures. They further criticized British and Irish government actions regarding the war in Gaza, arguing that outrage should be directed at state violence rather than their words. The band maintained that their message promotes love and inclusion, and reiterated their 'heartfelt apologies' to the Cox and Amess families for any hurt caused. Calls have been made by politicians to remove Kneecap from major festival line-ups in response to the controversy.