Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, better known as Mo Chara from the Irish rap trio Kneecap, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 20 August facing a single terrorism charge for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during a concert in London on 21 November 2024. Prosecutors say the artist also shouted “Up Hamas, up Hezbollah” on stage, actions that would contravene the UK Terrorism Act, which makes showing support for the proscribed Lebanese militia a criminal offence punishable by up to 14 years in prison. The 27-year-old, who denies the allegation, is seeking to have the case dismissed. His lawyers argue the formal charge on 22 May was laid one day after the statute-barred six-month deadline and lacked prior authorisation from the Attorney General. Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove countered that charging actually occurred on 21 May and that authorisation was only required before the defendant’s first court appearance. After three hours of legal arguments, Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring adjourned proceedings and said he will rule on 26 September whether the prosecution can proceed. Ó hAnnaidh remains on unconditional bail. Hundreds of supporters waving Irish and Palestinian flags gathered outside the courthouse, chanting “Free Mo Chara”. Kneecap, known for politically charged performances, maintains the flag was thrown on stage and calls the charge a “distraction” from the Israel-Palestine conflict.