Kanye West says ‘I’m here’ as UK weighs ban over antisemitism row
Rapper Kanye West has spoken out for the first time amid growing pressure to bar him from entering Britain ahead of his scheduled headline appearance at London’s Wireless Festival in July.
West, who legally goes by Ye, is set to perform across three nights at Finsbury Park, but his booking has triggered a significant backlash from politicians, Jewish community groups, and sponsors over his history of antisemitic remarks.
Breaking his silence on the day tickets went on sale, West issued a statement addressing the controversy head-on. “I’ve been following the conversation around Wireless and want to address it directly. My only goal is to come to London and present a show of change, bringing unity, peace, and love through my music,” he said to the BBC.
He also extended an olive branch to the Jewish community, adding: “I would be grateful for the opportunity to meet with members of the Jewish community in the UK in person, to listen. I know words aren’t enough — I’ll have to show change through my actions. If you’re open, I’m here.”
Despite the conciliatory tone, opposition to his appearance remains fierce. Health Secretary Wes Streeting was among those to criticise the decision, arguing there was no shortage of alternatives. “There are plenty of other talented artists in this country, let alone internationally, who would benefit from the exposure and who in turn would help drive ticket sales,” he said, calling the booking “a very bad error of judgment.”
Streeting also confirmed the Home Office is actively considering whether West should be permitted to enter the UK at all. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has faced direct calls from both politicians and the Campaign Against Antisemitism to deny him entry, while Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the booking as “deeply concerning.” Several major sponsors have already withdrawn their support from the festival.
Melvin Benn, managing director of Festival Republic, which promotes Wireless, has defended the decision, describing himself as a “deeply committed anti-fascist” and “person of forgiveness.”
West has previously apologised for his antisemitic comments, attributing some of his past behaviour to his bipolar disorder. Whether his latest statement will be enough to satisfy critics or the Home Office remains to be seen.
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