Bob Vylan Defends Controversial IDF Chant: Promises to Repeat at Future Events

Bob Vylan, the frontman of the punk duo Bob Vylan, recently defended his controversial chant “death, death to the IDF” during their performance at Glastonbury in June. On The Louis Theroux podcast, he expressed no regrets about the statement and stated that he would repeat it at future events.

Backlash and Support

The chant, which sparked widespread outrage, led to the revocation of the duo’s U.S. visas and cancellations of several festival appearances. Despite the backlash, Vylan believes the impact is minimal compared to the struggles faced by the Palestinian people, who are enduring significant loss and displacement. He emphasized, “If I have their support, I’m being vocal for them.”

Public Reaction

• U.S. government condemned the chant as a “hateful tirade.”
• BBC criticized for airing the performance; their Executive Complaints Unit noted a breach of editorial standards.
• Vylan claims that the reaction to his chant was disproportionate to the issue it addresses.

Vylan noted that the uproar over the chant surprised him, asserting that the audience and even BBC staff enjoyed the performance. “It’s just normal,” he mentioned regarding the reaction post-show.

Chant’s Purpose and Message

When questioned about his choice of words, Vylan explained that the chant’s rhythmic quality contributed to its adoptability. He expressed a desire to highlight the grim conditions in Palestine rather than to incite hatred. He reiterated that a more peaceful phrase like “end, end the IDF” lacked the same catchiness.

Impact on Jewish Community

Addressing concerns regarding rising antisemitic incidents following their performance, Vylan stated he does not believe his actions incited violence. He remarked, “If I had created an unsafe atmosphere for the Jewish community, I would reconsider my impact.” His conversation with Theroux, recorded on October 1, transpired before significant events like the Manchester synagogue attack and a Gaza ceasefire.

Bob Vylan continues to focus on the causes of oppression and aims to advocate for the rights of the Palestinian people through his music.