Six Arrested as Pro-Palestine Rally Clashes with Police in Central London
Protest Redirected, Arrests Made
Six demonstrators were arrested during a protest in central London supporting Palestine. The march was set to pass BBC’s Broadcasting House and a nearby synagogue. But police blocked the original route due to fears it would disturb the Jewish community observing Shabbat. Instead, protesters were forced to gather in Whitehall.
The Metropolitan Police invoked the Public Order Act to stop protesters from assembling in Portland Place, close to the synagogue. The Met said the move was to prevent “serious disruption” and intimidation during sacred Jewish services.
Hundreds packed Whitehall instead, waving placards reading “Gaza. Stop the massacre” and “Stop arming Israel.” One banner slammed the BBC and political parties: “Labour, Tories, BBC. You show Russia’s crimes but hide Israel’s. Why?”
Four arrests were for public order offences, two for breaking police conditions. Police also detained one protester for holding a sign backing a banned group.
Tensions Boil Over
A woman’s arrest sparked angry chants of “Let her go!” as scuffles broke out while officers pushed the crowd behind barriers. Another masked protester was marched away in handcuffs amid vocal protests.
The Met deployed a huge force of 1,100 officers, including 200 from other forces, to control the rally. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan said police were highly visible near the BBC and surrounding streets to enforce restrictions and avoid breaches.
Community Reaction: Polarised Response
The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) slammed the restrictions as “repressive.” A spokesperson urged police to lift the bans and allow full marches.
Meanwhile, Jewish safety groups including the Community Security Trust (CST) backed the police. The CST said they had worked closely with officers and local Jewish communities to ensure safe services and activities during this sensitive time.
Conservative MP Bob Blackman also voiced support for police action and called for tough penalties on anyone flouting rules.
Police Vow to Keep London Safe
Concerns remain high around Jewish residents given the protest’s proximity to synagogues during Shabbat. The Metropolitan Police pledged to protect all communities and said it will continue closely monitoring the situation.
The PSC ended the event with a static protest in Whitehall and vowed to keep pushing for the right to march freely.
Anyone with information or incidents to report can contact the Metropolitan Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
