News|CensorshipUK court throws out Kneecap terror charge quoting technicalityIrish rapper Mo Chara was charged for displaying a Hezbollah flag during a London concert last year.

On Fri, Sep 1, 2025, a London court dismissed a terror charge against Liam Og O hAnnaidh, a member of the Irish rap group Kneecap, due to a procedural error in the charging process. Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ruled that the charge was brought after the six-month statutory limit applicable to such cases, rendering the charge unlawful.

O hAnnaidh, known by his stage name Mo Chara, was charged in May 2025 for displaying a Hezbollah flag during a concert in London in November 2024. The United Kingdom has classified Hezbollah as a terrorist organization since 2019, making it an offense to exhibit support for the group.

Goldspring stated, “The charge is unlawful and null and this court has no jurisdiction to try the charge.” The court's decision has been interpreted as a procedural victory for O hAnnaidh, who denied the offense, claiming the flag was thrown on stage during the performance.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson indicated that they would collaborate with the Crown Prosecution Service to assess the implications of this ruling for future cases. This decision may impact how similar cases are processed in the future.

Kneecap has faced international scrutiny and accusations of glorifying terrorism due to statements made in support of Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Countries such as Hungary and Canada have banned the group, and some concerts in Germany and Austria have been canceled. Kneecap denies supporting Hezbollah and Hamas and does not condone violence.

The situation highlights ongoing tensions and the complexities involved in balancing national security concerns with freedom of expression.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.