Banned for a Flag: Singapore Bars Massive Attack Members Over Palestine Display

A flag on stage and a shout of 'Free Palestine' bring an investigation and an entry ban

Singaporean police are investigating the British band Massive Attack over the display of a Palestinian flag during a concert in the city-state, with two members barred from re-entering the country.

In a joint statement issued on Friday, police and Singapore’s media authority said the band was under investigation for “actions in support of a political cause” after members unfurled a foreign flag during Wednesday’s performance. Authorities added that the group would no longer be permitted to perform in Singapore.

Police said one of the musicians had also shouted “Free Palestine” during the show, which they described as “a possible breach of license conditions.” Videos circulating online showed two members of the band holding the flag on stage to prolonged cheers from the audience.

The media regulator said it would not approve any future performance applications from the group following the entry ban.

‘Heightened sensitivities’

The response is consistent with a position Singapore’s authorities set out early in the war. In 2023, the Home Affairs Ministry warned the public against displaying symbols related to the conflict in Gaza, describing it as “an emotive issue” and advising against “the public display and wearing of articles in relation to the conflict, given the heightened sensitivities.”

The case is the latest in a series of measures taken against public expressions of solidarity with Palestine. Since October 2023, pro-Palestinian demonstrations have met restrictions in a number of countries, including mass arrests in the United States, curbs on protest in the United Kingdom, repeated bans in France, and criminal investigations and deportation proceedings against activists in Germany.

Reference: PressTv