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Singapore bans Massive Attack after Palestinian flag display

British band Massive Attack says members were held briefly after unfurling a Palestinian flag during a Singapore concert, leading to a nationwide performance ban.

·1 min read·4 outlets

The short version

Singapore has banned the British band Massive Attack from performing in the city-state after a member displayed a Palestinian flag during a concert. The band says the display was an impromptu expression of support for Palestine.

Singapore has banned the British band Massive Attack from performing in the city-state.4,3 The ban followed an incident during a concert where a Palestinian flag was displayed.4,3,2,1 Massive Attack says the flag display was an impromptu expression of support for Palestine.4,2

The band stated they are 'proud' of the display made with fans in Singapore.4,2 Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed the ban under its policy of maintaining racial harmony.3 The policy has been criticized in the past for limiting free speech in Singapore.3

Massive Attack called the ban a 'surreal experience' in a statement.2 The band also said they were 'surprised and disappointed' by their treatment.1 The incident occurred during a concert in Singapore this week.4,2,1

The band's current lineup includes Robert '3D' Del Naja and Grant 'Daddy G' Marshall.2

“We are proud to have made this impromptu expression with our fans in Singapore.”
Massive Attack, band statement4,2
“We are surprised and disappointed by our treatment over shouting 'free Palestine' at a concert there.”
Massive Attack, band statement1

Why it matters

  • Singapore enforces strict laws against the display of foreign flags to preserve racial and religious harmony, a policy often debated for its impact on free expression.3

  • Massive Attack is a British trip-hop band formed in the 1980s, known for politically charged performances and activism.2

This account was written from the 4 reports listed below, filed by 4 independent outlets, and checked against them line by line. It is not a copy of any one of them. Spotted an error? Tell us.

Well corroborated4 outlets
Left3Center1Right0

4 reports from 4 outlets. The numbers in the article point here.

Left-leaning3
Center1

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