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

Singapore barred two Massive Attack members from re-entering after the band ended a Wednesday concert with a Palestinian flag display. Authorities investigated the band for supporting a political cause and unfurling a foreign flag, citing licensing breaches. The Infocomm Media Development Authority will take necessary action. Singapore prohibits public display of foreign emblems without permit, with the Palestinian flag especially sensitive due to the Gaza war and Muslim population.

Singapore barred two members of the British band Massive Attack from re-entering the country after the band ended their Wednesday concert with a display of the Palestinian flag. Authorities investigated the band for their "actions of support for a political cause and unfurling of a foreign flag," according to local media reports. The Infocomm Media Development Authority said it is investigating possible breaches of license conditions and will take "necessary action" when investigations are completed. 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 advised against public display of articles related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The ministry emphasized preserving peace and harmony between races and religions, noting that external events should not affect domestic harmony. Massive Attack, formed in Bristol in 1988, are known for outspoken political stances, with concert videos highlighting conflicts from the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran to Sudan, Gaza, and Ukraine. Neither the concert organizer Lushington nor the band responded to requests for comment.