Musical band Massive Attack members barred from Singapore after displaying Palestinian flag

Singapore is investigating possible licensing breaches after the musical band Massive Attack displayed a Palestinian flag. Two of its members are barred from returning.Follow us on GoogleGrant Marshall and Robert Del Naja of Massive Attack perform onstage during Lido Festival at Lido Field on June 06, 2025 in London, England. (photo credit: James Smith/Sam Snap/Getty Images)ByREUTERSJULY 31, 2026 22:03Two members of Massive Attack were issued with stern warnings and barred from re-entering Singapore after the British band ended their performance on Wednesday with a display of the Palestinian flag, according to local media reports.Authorities said the band were investigated for their "actions of support for a political cause and unfurling of a foreign flag," during the band’s concert, reports said.The Infocomm Media Development Authority also said it is investigating the possible breach of a number of license conditions and will take "necessary action" when investigations are completed, reports added.Singapore does not allow the public display of foreign national emblems without a permit or exemption, and the Palestinian flag is especially sensitive given the war in Gaza and Singapore's Muslim population.In 2023, the home affairs ministry said: "The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict is an emotive issue. We would like to advise against the public display and wearing of articles in relation to the conflict, given the heightened sensitivities."Robert Del Naja of Massive Attack participates in the 'Everyone Day' mass action against the Government's proscription of Palestine Action, at Trafalgar Square on April 11, 2026 in London, England. (credit: Guy Smallman/Getty Images)Singapore Home Affairs Ministry emphasizes the need to preserve peace and harmony"The peace and harmony between different races and religions in Singapore should not be taken for granted, and we must not let events happening externally affect this peace and harmony we have in Singapore."Singapore's resident population is 74% Chinese, 13.6% Malay, and 9% Indian, with 3.3% classified as others. Around 15% are Muslim.Massive Attack, formed in Bristol in the west of England in 1988, are known for their outspoken political stances, with videos during their concert highlighting conflicts from the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, to Sudan, Gaza and Ukraine.Neither the concert organizer Lushington nor the band immediately responded to a request for comment.Follow us on Google