Latest news with #TerrorismAct
The National
3 hours ago
- Politics
- The National
Labour MP calls for RAF break in group to be banned under terror law
Backbencher David Taylor, who previously unsuccessfully campaigned for Kneecap to be banned from Glastonbury, made the call after a break-in at RAF Brize Norton. Palestine Action members sprayed red paint into the engines of two Airbus Voyager on Thursday evening and said they used crowbars to further damage the planes. It is believed that one of the aircraft targeted is the UK's official VIP jet, used to ferry prime ministers and royals to official visits. Taylor insisted he supported the 'right to peaceful protest' but added: 'Palestine Action has long since crossed the line into criminality. Their latest alleged activity, breaking into RAF Brize Norton and damaging military aircraft, is not protest, it's sabotage. You cannot attack UK military assets. READ MORE: UK's 'Union flag plane damaged' in pro-Palestine RAF break-in 'This group have engaged in illegal activity: smashing into defence sites, vandalising property, and disrupting key infrastructure. These are not isolated incidents; they are part of a coordinated campaign of unlawful direct action.' Palestine Action have vandalised the premises of numerous businesses linked with the Israeli military. Last month, a case against activists for blocking access to Elbit's Instro Precision weapons factory in Kent was thrown out at Margate Magistrates Court. Elbit is a key target of the group because the firm is a key supplier of the Israeli military. Taylor (above) added: 'It is time for the government to take a firmer stance. I believe Palestine Action should now be considered for proscription under the Terrorism Act. We cannot allow groups who glorify and incite violence to operate unchecked under the guise of activism.' Groups proscribed under the Terrorism Act include Hamas and Hezbollah. Declaring support for a proscribed organisation is a criminal offence under the Terrorism Act. READ MORE: UK Government urged to publish legal advice on joining war on Iran Kneecap rapper Liam Og O hAnnaidh – known by the stage name Mo Chara – appeared in Westminster Magistrates Court earlier this week charged with an offence under the act after allegedly flying a Hezbollah flag at a concert. He was released on unconditional bail with his lawyers arguing that the alleged offence took place outside the six-month window required to fall under the court's jurisdiction. Palestine Action was approached for comment.
Extra.ie
a day ago
- Politics
- Extra.ie
Kneecap member's legal team includes barrister who freed Birmingham Six
Kneecap member Mo Chara- who was formally charged with terrorism offences at a London court on Wednesday – has hired a crack defence team. His legal reps include the barrister who successfully defended the wrongfully convicted Birmingham Six bombers; a solicitor who acted for Paddy Jackson in the notorious 'rugby trial' and an international rights lawyer who argued on behalf of South Africa in the 'genocide' case against the state of Israel. The Northern Irish rapper's souped-up defence team can be considered as somewhat of an indicator of the gravity of the charges levelled against him which could carry a hefty term behind bars. Kneecap band member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, who performs under the stage name Mo Chara, leaves Westminster Magistrates' Court. Pic: James Veysey/REX/Shutterstock Four weeks ago, the Metropolitan Police announced that the 27-year-old performer had been charged under his real name Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh under the Terrorism Act on May 21 for 'displaying a flag in support of Hizballah, a proscribed organisation'. Subsequent to the charges, Kneecap announced that they would vehemently defend the charges. And with the conscription of the crack defence panel, it would appear that they intend to mount a robust defence in an effort to stave off jail time. The biggest hitter of the defence team is Guildford Four and Birmingham Six lawyer Gareth Peirce. Gareth Peirce (centre) at Westminster Magistrates' Court ahead of the court appearance of Kneecap band member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, who performs under the stage name Mo Chara. Pic:Ms Peirce is often described as one of the UK's leading human rights lawyers. She represented the Guildford Four as they fought to prove their wrongful convictions over the IRA's 1974 Guildford pub bombings. The case was made into a film in 'In the Name of the Father', with Emma Thompson playing the lawyer. Ms Peirce, who also went on to represent WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange during his fight against US extradition, is joined on Mo Chara's legal team by Belfast-based Darragh Mackin of Phoenix Law. Darragh Mackin (right) with Kneecap band member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh (left), who performs under the stage name Mo Chara, arriving at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday morning. Pic: Benjamin Cremel/AFP via Getty Images Belfast-based solicitor Mr Mackin hit the headlines when he took on the case of former Irish rugby international star Paddy Jackson in the infamous trial that gripped the nation both North and South of the border. A one time star of the rugby world in 2017 Mr Jackson was charged with rape for which he was subsequently tried and cleared with a not guilty verdict after a protracted legal case in 2018. Paddy Jackson outside court in Belfast in February 2018. Pic:And beefing up the star-studded defence bench are three highly accomplished female members of the U.K. bar association. Brenda Campbell KC, Jude Bunting KC and Blinne Ni Ghralaigh KC have been drafted into what is set to be a highly contentious case. Blinne Ní Ghrálaigh at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in January 2024. Pic: Selman Aksunger/Anadolu via Getty Images Perhaps the most high-profile of the aforementioned legal bigwigs is Blinne Ni Ghralaigh KC, who last year was tasked by South Africa with presenting its 'genocide' case against Israel in the International Court of Human Rights.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Irish group Kneecap appears in UK court; charged with terror offence over Hezbollah flag; hundreds rally in support outside courthouse
Hundreds of supporters gathered outside Westminster Magistrates' Court in London on Wednesday as Liam O'Hanna, known by his stage name Mo Chara, a member of the Irish rap group Kneecap — appeared in court on a terrorism-related charge. The 27-year-old rapper and member of the Belfast-based group Kneecap is accused of displaying the flag of Hezbollah , a banned Iran-backed militant group, during a concert in London in November 2024. He was charged in May under the UK's Terrorism Act, which makes it a criminal offence to publicly show symbols in a way that could suggest support for a proscribed organisation. Mo Chara arrived in court wearing a Palestinian keffiyeh scarf and black sunglasses. The flag incident reportedly took place during a Kneecap performance, where the group claims the flag was thrown on stage by someone in the audience. They have called the charge 'an attempt to silence' them. Kneecap, known for their bilingual Irish-English lyrics and provocative political messaging, often include pro-Palestinian statements in their performances. The case has drawn attention for its intersection of free expression, artistic performance, and anti-terror legislation. Chants of "Free Palestine" and "Kneecap" echoed both outside and within the court building. In the UK, showing support for Hamas and the Iran-supported Lebanese organisation Hezbollah is illegal, as both groups are prohibited. Kneecap has rejected the allegation following their recent statements criticising the Gaza war and opposing Israel. "We deny this 'offence' and will vehemently defend ourselves. This is political policing. This is a carnival of distraction," the group had earlier posted on X. On Wednesday, O'Hanna received unconditional bail, with the next court date set for August 20. His court appearance was limited to confirming his personal details. Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove clarified that O'Hanna's Palestinian support and Israeli criticism weren't at issue. "He is well within his rights to voice his opinions and his solidarity," Bisgrove told AFP. The prosecution focused on O'Hanna's alleged display of "the flag of Hezbollah, a proscribed terrorist organisation, while allegedly saying 'Up Hamas, up Hezbollah'". The punk-rap collective maintains that the video evidence was presented without proper context. At London's Wide Awake Festival in May, O'Hanna suggested the charge aimed to "silence us" following multiple cancelled shows. Their Scottish performance was cancelled due to safety issues, German venues withdrew their shows, and UK ministers questioned their scheduled Glastonbury appearance. The defence challenged the timing of the charge, noting it came on May 21, six months after the November 21 concert. The group performs in both Irish and English languages, viewed as bold innovators by supporters and radical elements by critics. Since their 2017 formation, they've courted controversy through drug-referenced lyrics, opposition to the previous Conservative government, and criticism of British control in Northern Ireland. Formed in 2017, Kneecap has often found itself at the center of controversy. Known for lyrics that reference drugs and for their strong anti-establishment views, the group has frequently clashed with the former UK Conservative government and openly opposes British rule in Northern Ireland. Last year, the group gained international recognition after a semi-fictional film inspired by their story won several awards, including at the Sundance Film Festival.
Middle East Eye
2 days ago
- Politics
- Middle East Eye
Kneecap rapper granted bail on terror charge over Hezbollah flag at London gig
A London court granted unconditional bail to a member of the Irish language rap group Kneecap on Wednesday after being charged under the Terrorism Act. Liam Og O hAnnaidh, also known by his stage name Mo Chara, appeared before Westminster Magistrates' Court after being charged in May for allegedly holding a Hezbollah flag during a concert at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town in November. Under UK law, Hezbollah is a proscribed terrorist organisation, meaning expressing support for the group is illegal. No plea was heard during the hearing due to disagreements from Og O hAnnaidh's defence surrounding the date charges were lodged against the performer. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside the court in central London during Og O hAnnaidh's short hearing on Wednesday morning. New MEE newsletter: Jerusalem Dispatch Sign up to get the latest insights and analysis on Israel-Palestine, alongside Turkey Unpacked and other MEE newsletters 'Today, the truth was outed,' said a spokesperson for the group, who are from Northern Ireland, after the hearing. 'This was a rushed prosecution after the Coachella performance [in Spain] where Kneecap did not shy away from speaking truth to power. 'Oppression fears freedom of expression,' he continued. However, in their opening address, the prosecution insisted that 'this case is not about [Og O hAnnaidh's] support for Palestine or his criticism of Israel' but simply regarded the alleged flag incident. 'We deny this 'offence' and will vehemently defend ourselves. This is political policing. This is a carnival of distraction. We are not the story. Genocide is' - Kneecap statement The prosecution also mentioned another incident in which Og O hAannaidh is alleged to have said: 'Up Hamas, Up Hezbollah.' Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring, who oversaw the hearing, noted that no Irish language court interpreter had been available for Og O hAnnaidh, who performs in a mixture of English and Irish. 'We were going to have one today, but I will be blunt, we couldn't find one,' admitted Goldspring. Og O hAnnaidh could face six months' imprisonment if he is found guilty. A statement on the band's Instagram page said: 'We deny this 'offence' and will vehemently defend ourselves. This is political policing. This is a carnival of distraction. We are not the story. Genocide is.' Outside the court, crowds cheered as a van with a billboard displaying the message, 'More Blacks, More Dogs, More Irish, Mo Chara', drove past the court. A traditional Irish band was also playing to the crowds, as fans waved Irish and Palestinian flags supporting Kneecap. Darragh Mackin, one of the three barristers representing Og O hAnnaidh, said, "Kneecap has played an unrivalled role in standing up for those without a voice in Gaza." "It is difficult to comprehend a case of greater international importance in recent years," said Mackin. "Kneecap speaks truth to power when others shy away." The case continues on 20 August.
The Advertiser
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Advertiser
Kneecap rapper faces London court on terrorism charge
A member of Irish rap group Kneecap has appeared in a London court charged with a terrorism offence for allegedly displaying a flag in support of Iran-backed Lebanese militia Hezbollah, as hundreds of people gathered outside in support. Liam O'Hanna, whose stage name is Mo Chara, is alleged to have waved the flag of banned militant group Hezbollah during a Kneecap gig in London in November 2024. The 27-year-old was charged in May under the Terrorism Act, under which it is a criminal offence to display an article in a way which arouses reasonable suspicion that someone is a supporter of a proscribed organisation. Belfast-based Kneecap, who rap in Irish and English and regularly display pro-Palestinian messages during their gigs, previously said the flag had been thrown on stage and described the charge against O'Hanna as an attempt to silence them. O'Hanna appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court where supporters, including some Northern Irish politicians and musicians including Paul Weller, massed before the hearing on Wednesday. A group of musicians sang Irish ballads and many in the crowd waved Irish and Palestinian flags and held placards. He had to push past a scrum of photographers when he arrived as supporters chanted "Free Palestine" and "Free Mo Chara". Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove told the court the case was not about O'Hanna's support for Palestinians or his criticism of Israel, saying he was well within his rights to do that. "The allegation in this case is a wholly different thing and deals with the video recording showing that, in November of last year, Mr O'Hanna wore and displayed the flag of Hezbollah ... while saying 'up Hamas, up Hezbollah'." O'Hanna's lawyer Brenda Campbell said the defence would argue the charge was brought after the six-month limit to bring such a charge. "If we are right in relation to that, then this court has no jurisdiction and there ends the case," she said. A hearing will be held on August 20 to determine whether the charge was brought too late, Judge Paul Goldspring said. O'Hanna spoke only in court to confirm his name, date of birth and address. One of his lawyers, Darragh Mackin, told the crowd of supporters: "The more they come after Kneecap, the louder they will get." A member of Irish rap group Kneecap has appeared in a London court charged with a terrorism offence for allegedly displaying a flag in support of Iran-backed Lebanese militia Hezbollah, as hundreds of people gathered outside in support. Liam O'Hanna, whose stage name is Mo Chara, is alleged to have waved the flag of banned militant group Hezbollah during a Kneecap gig in London in November 2024. The 27-year-old was charged in May under the Terrorism Act, under which it is a criminal offence to display an article in a way which arouses reasonable suspicion that someone is a supporter of a proscribed organisation. Belfast-based Kneecap, who rap in Irish and English and regularly display pro-Palestinian messages during their gigs, previously said the flag had been thrown on stage and described the charge against O'Hanna as an attempt to silence them. O'Hanna appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court where supporters, including some Northern Irish politicians and musicians including Paul Weller, massed before the hearing on Wednesday. A group of musicians sang Irish ballads and many in the crowd waved Irish and Palestinian flags and held placards. He had to push past a scrum of photographers when he arrived as supporters chanted "Free Palestine" and "Free Mo Chara". Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove told the court the case was not about O'Hanna's support for Palestinians or his criticism of Israel, saying he was well within his rights to do that. "The allegation in this case is a wholly different thing and deals with the video recording showing that, in November of last year, Mr O'Hanna wore and displayed the flag of Hezbollah ... while saying 'up Hamas, up Hezbollah'." O'Hanna's lawyer Brenda Campbell said the defence would argue the charge was brought after the six-month limit to bring such a charge. "If we are right in relation to that, then this court has no jurisdiction and there ends the case," she said. A hearing will be held on August 20 to determine whether the charge was brought too late, Judge Paul Goldspring said. O'Hanna spoke only in court to confirm his name, date of birth and address. One of his lawyers, Darragh Mackin, told the crowd of supporters: "The more they come after Kneecap, the louder they will get." A member of Irish rap group Kneecap has appeared in a London court charged with a terrorism offence for allegedly displaying a flag in support of Iran-backed Lebanese militia Hezbollah, as hundreds of people gathered outside in support. Liam O'Hanna, whose stage name is Mo Chara, is alleged to have waved the flag of banned militant group Hezbollah during a Kneecap gig in London in November 2024. The 27-year-old was charged in May under the Terrorism Act, under which it is a criminal offence to display an article in a way which arouses reasonable suspicion that someone is a supporter of a proscribed organisation. Belfast-based Kneecap, who rap in Irish and English and regularly display pro-Palestinian messages during their gigs, previously said the flag had been thrown on stage and described the charge against O'Hanna as an attempt to silence them. O'Hanna appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court where supporters, including some Northern Irish politicians and musicians including Paul Weller, massed before the hearing on Wednesday. A group of musicians sang Irish ballads and many in the crowd waved Irish and Palestinian flags and held placards. He had to push past a scrum of photographers when he arrived as supporters chanted "Free Palestine" and "Free Mo Chara". Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove told the court the case was not about O'Hanna's support for Palestinians or his criticism of Israel, saying he was well within his rights to do that. "The allegation in this case is a wholly different thing and deals with the video recording showing that, in November of last year, Mr O'Hanna wore and displayed the flag of Hezbollah ... while saying 'up Hamas, up Hezbollah'." O'Hanna's lawyer Brenda Campbell said the defence would argue the charge was brought after the six-month limit to bring such a charge. "If we are right in relation to that, then this court has no jurisdiction and there ends the case," she said. A hearing will be held on August 20 to determine whether the charge was brought too late, Judge Paul Goldspring said. O'Hanna spoke only in court to confirm his name, date of birth and address. One of his lawyers, Darragh Mackin, told the crowd of supporters: "The more they come after Kneecap, the louder they will get." A member of Irish rap group Kneecap has appeared in a London court charged with a terrorism offence for allegedly displaying a flag in support of Iran-backed Lebanese militia Hezbollah, as hundreds of people gathered outside in support. Liam O'Hanna, whose stage name is Mo Chara, is alleged to have waved the flag of banned militant group Hezbollah during a Kneecap gig in London in November 2024. The 27-year-old was charged in May under the Terrorism Act, under which it is a criminal offence to display an article in a way which arouses reasonable suspicion that someone is a supporter of a proscribed organisation. Belfast-based Kneecap, who rap in Irish and English and regularly display pro-Palestinian messages during their gigs, previously said the flag had been thrown on stage and described the charge against O'Hanna as an attempt to silence them. O'Hanna appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court where supporters, including some Northern Irish politicians and musicians including Paul Weller, massed before the hearing on Wednesday. A group of musicians sang Irish ballads and many in the crowd waved Irish and Palestinian flags and held placards. He had to push past a scrum of photographers when he arrived as supporters chanted "Free Palestine" and "Free Mo Chara". Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove told the court the case was not about O'Hanna's support for Palestinians or his criticism of Israel, saying he was well within his rights to do that. "The allegation in this case is a wholly different thing and deals with the video recording showing that, in November of last year, Mr O'Hanna wore and displayed the flag of Hezbollah ... while saying 'up Hamas, up Hezbollah'." O'Hanna's lawyer Brenda Campbell said the defence would argue the charge was brought after the six-month limit to bring such a charge. "If we are right in relation to that, then this court has no jurisdiction and there ends the case," she said. A hearing will be held on August 20 to determine whether the charge was brought too late, Judge Paul Goldspring said. O'Hanna spoke only in court to confirm his name, date of birth and address. One of his lawyers, Darragh Mackin, told the crowd of supporters: "The more they come after Kneecap, the louder they will get."
