Police end investigation into Bob Vylan’s IDF chants at Glastonbury

An investigation into Bob Vylan's chants of "death, death to the IDF" at Glastonbury Festival in June has concluded with no further action. Avon and Somerset police investigated the incident after widespread anger over the remarks. A man in his mid-30s, presumed to be Bobby Vylan (Pascal Robinson-Foster), was interviewed under caution but not arrested. Police determined there was insufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction after consulting with the Crown Prosecution Service, who provided early investigative advice. The police considered a number of offences but concluded that the evidential requirements could not be met. The Community Security Trust expressed disappointment with the decision, advocating for a stronger approach to hateful rhetoric.

British police have dropped their investigation into comments made by the punk-rap duo Bob Vylan at the Glastonbury music festival in June 2025. The investigation stemmed from chants led by the group's lead singer, Bobby Vylan, directed at the Israeli military over its war in Gaza. Avon and Somerset Police stated there was "insufficient evidence" to meet the criminal threshold for prosecution. The BBC, which livestreamed the performance, previously apologized for broadcasting the chants, which drew widespread criticism. Police interviewed a man in his mid-30s and contacted around 200 members of the public as part of their investigation, considering intent, context, case law, and freedom of expression before closing the case.