Kneecap: rapper released on unconditional bail
Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh was appearing in court in London
Last updated 18th Jun 2025
Kneecap rapper Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh was released on unconditional bail today (Wednesday) after appearing in a court in London on an alleged terror charge.
Mr Óg Ó hAnnaidh who uses the stage name Mo Chara, 27, from Belfast, is accused of displaying a flag in support of Hezbollah at a gig on November 21 2024 at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town.
Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove said: "This case is not about Mr hAnnaidh's support for the people of Palestine or his criticism of Israel."
Summarising the allegations against Mr Óg Ó hAnnaidh, Mr Cosgrove told the court: "It's not about Mr O hAnnaidh's support for the people of Palestine or his criticism of Israel.
"He's well within his rights to voice his opinions and solidarity, as is anybody else.
"The allegation in this case is a wholly different thing and deals with a video recording showing that, in November of last year, Mr O hAnnaidh wore and displayed the flag of Hezbollah, a proscribed terrorist organisation, while saying 'up Hamas, up Hezbollah'.
"Of course, support for the one is not the same as support for the other.
"So the issue in this case, and the reason it has come to court, it centres on the apparent support by Mr of a proscribed Óg Ó hAnnaidh terrorist organisation."
It is alleged that O hAnnaidh, who appeared on the court list as Liam O'Hanna, displayed a Hezbollah flag and said "up Hamas, up Hezbollah" at the gig.
Wearing a dark zip up jacket and trousers, he spoke briefly to confirm his identity at the beginning of the hearing.
Mr Óg Ó hAnnaidh was released on unconditional bail until his next hearing on August 20 when legal argument will be dealt with.
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring told him he must attend court on that day.
Mr Og O hAnnaidh and fellow band members, Naoise O Caireallain, and J J O Dochartaigh left the court to loud cheers and chants of "Free Palestine" from hundreds of their supporters who remained outside during the hearing.
Before they emerged, supporters gave speeches about Palestine and Ireland.