• Kneecap cancels 15-date US tour due to ongoing court case involving member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh.
• The band faces charges under the Terrorism Act for allegedly supporting Hezbollah.
• They claim the prosecution is a "witch-hunt" by the British government.
• Refunds will be available for fans after the cancellation announcement.
• The trio continues to receive public support for their political stances.

The Irish rap group Kneecap has announced the cancellation of their US tour, originally scheduled for October, due to the upcoming court hearing involving member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh. The court case stems from allegations that Ó hAnnaidh, also known as Mo Chara, displayed a Hezbollah flag during a performance in London last year, a charge he denies. His next court date is set for September 26, leading the band to conclude that proceeding with the tour would be unviable, according to BBC.

Kneecap's statement revealed that the decision to cancel all 15 tour dates was made due to the proximity of the court hearing to the planned tour dates, which they described as a "witch-hunt" by the British government. The band emphasized their commitment to returning for a larger tour once they resolve the legal issues, as they had sold out every show, as reported by Reuters and Bangkok Post.

The Serbian police charged Ó hAnnaidh under the Terrorism Act, claiming that by allegedly displaying the flag, he supported a proscribed organization, which includes Hezbollah according to UK law. The group's supporters contend that the charges reflect excessive governmental action against artistic expression and political dissent, illustrating the tension surrounding Kneecap's performances that previously criticized the war in Gaza, as noted by Middle East Eye and Reuters.

Public support for Kneecap remains strong, with fans rallying during Ó hAnnaidh's court appearances, holding banners and chanting "Free Palestine." This display of support reflects broader sentiments about the band's political messages, which they claim lead to these legal battles. The group continues to advocate for their views, regardless of the repercussions, as seen during their performances across Europe, according to Middle East Eye and BBC.