Massive Attack respond after Singapore ban over Palestine display

Massive Attack have said they were "surprised and disappointed" after Singapore banned them from performing in or returning to the country, following a pro-Palestine display at their 29 July concert there. Band members Robert Del Naja and Grant Marshall held up a Palestinian flag and shouted "Free Palestine" during the show, in apparent breach of Singapore's strict rules on public displays of foreign flags and political expression at public events; the group says they were subsequently detained, questioned separately, and had their hotel rooms searched and passports temporarily confiscated.

Singaporean police confirmed the two musicians received "stern warnings" and will not be allowed to re-enter the country or perform there again. The band, known for outspoken political stances including support for Palestine over the Gaza war, said they never imagined displaying the flag of "a sovereign state recognised by 157 countries" would break the law, and praised fans who joined the chants despite Singapore's censorship laws. Singapore's authorities have defended their approach as necessary to protect racial and social harmony, having previously issued fines over an unauthorised pro-Palestinian walk. The band's Instagram statement drew over 146,000 likes and mixed reactions, including praise from Singaporean fans and a more cautious response from at least one local commentator who felt artists should respect host countries' laws.