Thousands Expected at London’s ‘March for Palestine’ This Saturday
A major demonstration organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign is set to hit Central London on Saturday, October 14. The organisers have secured a Section 12 (3) Public Order Act 1986 order for the march route, putting the Met on high alert.
Strict Rules to Avoid Arrest: Follow the Route
The Section 12 (3) order comes into effect at midday and bans any deviation from the approved path. Protesters must stick to the designated route from Portland Place, down Regent’s Street, through Piccadilly, Trafalgar Square, and ending in Whitehall. Anyone straying from this path risks arrest.
No Gatherings Allowed on Kensington High Street
On top of this, a Section 14 (3) order bans all assemblies in an area of Kensington High Street. Barriers will mark the zone clearly, and any attempt to gather there related to the Palestine protest will lead to immediate arrest.
Heightened Tensions After Deadly Israel-Hamas Attacks
These tough policing measures follow the recent brutal Hamas attack on Israel, which left over 1,300 dead. Israel retaliated with deadly airstrikes on Gaza, killing more than 1,500. The UN and charities warn a humanitarian disaster is unfolding.
“We expect thousands to descend on central London,” said the Metropolitan Police in a Friday statement. “Our priority is to support peaceful protest while keeping everyone safe.”
Meanwhile, counter-terror police arrested a 22-year-old woman in Brighton on suspicion of supporting Hamas at a protest last Sunday, showing the ongoing security concerns tied to the conflict.