JOHN Swinney has been urged to speak out about pro-Israeli artists performing in Glasgow after he called for Kneecap to be axed from TRNSMT.
Earlier this week, the First Minister called for the Irish language rap trio to be cut from the lineup, saying the band had "crossed the line" with comments apparently backing Hamas and calling for the death of MPs, and that it would be "unacceptable" for them to perform.
Campaign group Show Israeli Genocide the Red Card has now called on the First Minister to show the same disapproval for several pro-Israeli acts with upcoming shows in Glasgow.
In a statement posted to Instagram, the group listed upcoming shows by outspoken supporters of Israel, which included actress Chelsea Handler, rock group Disturbed and indie rock spearhead Morrissey.
They wrote: “We would also encourage you to speak up on the following acts that will be playing Glasgow in the next few months, who have said and done some truly reprehensible things.
“We know that you would not want to stay silent on these after your comments about Kneecap.”
In the post, Show Israeli Genocide the Red Card highlighted Handler’s appearance in a social media video “defending Israel’s most recent and heinous attacks in Gaza”, and critcised Disturbed’s frontman David Draiman for signing bombs and hosting personal meetings with IDF soldiers.
Morrissey was also listed in the statement for his repeated breaking of boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) guidelines by holding concerts in Israel, as well as wearing the jersey of football team Maccabi, whose fans allegedly chant “death to Arabs” at matches.
The campaigners added: “After your outspoken views on Kneecap, we would welcome you speaking out on these acts, which are just a few of many who are still defending Israel’s genocide and apartheid in Palestine and are given a platform in Scotland to air these views.
“We know you would not want to miss the opportunity of speaking out on this, or perhaps you can join our protests outside these gigs.”
Swinney was also asked to discuss the “sportswashing of Israeli war crimes” in Scottish sports, as well as ending Scotland’s investments in arms sales.
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “The First Minister said the reported comments from Kneecap regarding MPs were utterly unacceptable and the group has since apologised. The Scottish Government has been consistently clear in condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and for the provision of humanitarian assistance.”
