BBC expresses regret over not stopping Glastonbury livestream of Bob Vylan

The BBC has expressed regret for failing to cut the live broadcast of a Glastonbury Festival performance by punk-rap duo Bob Vylan, during which the crowd was led in chants against the 'Israeli' military.

The segment sparked swift condemnation from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and prompted scrutiny from media regulator Ofcom.

During Saturday's set on the West Holts Stage, frontman Bobby Vylan led the audience in chanting “Free, free Palestine” followed by “Death, death to the IDF,” referencing the Israeli Occupation Forces. The performance was streamed live by the BBC, prompting backlash over the network’s editorial oversight.

In a statement, the broadcaster described the footage as “unacceptable” and admitted it “regrets not removing the stream sooner.” Festival co-organizer Emily Eavis also criticized the moment, saying it “crossed a line.”

Ofcom has since acknowledged public complaints and said the BBC “has questions to answer” regarding its decision to air the content without intervention.

The incident has reignited debate in the UK over the limits of artistic expression and broadcaster responsibility amid heightened sensitivities around the war in Gaza.