Dame Lynne Owens pens heartfelt letter to London Central Mosque amid Gaza-Israel conflict
Speaking Out on Rising Tensions
Dame Lynne Owens, the Met Police Director-General, has written a powerful letter to Dr Ahmad Al-Dubayan, Director General of the London Central Mosque. She reflected on her recent visit and addressed the impact of the Gaza-Israel conflict on both Muslim and Jewish communities in London.
In her letter, Dame Lynne expressed sympathy for those affected by violence overseas and acknowledged the anxiety felt across London’s diverse faith groups.
Condemning Hate and Championing Unity
“The attacks on Israel had an enormous personal impact on Jewish communities here, while the plight of civilians in Gaza deeply affects Muslim and Arab communities,” she wrote. “I welcome your strong rejection of anyone trying to incite hatred or fuel extremism.”
Dame Lynne praised community leaders like Dr Al-Dubayan for their crucial role in calling for calm and fostering compassion during such challenging times.
Policing Protests with Fairness and Firmness
Addressing recent Palestine Solidarity Campaign demonstrations, the letter commended peaceful protesters while warning against disorderly or hateful behaviour. Dame Lynne vowed decisive action against hate speech and anyone supporting banned extremist groups such as Hamas or Hezbollah.
She confirmed the Met’s commitment to policing protests fairly, allowing lawful demonstrations while cracking down on abuse.
Protecting London’s Muslim Communities
Since the conflict began, hate crimes targeting Muslims in London have surged. Dame Lynne revealed the police have stepped up patrols in vulnerable areas and praised local officers for making mosques safer.
She urged victims to report hate crimes via the police or independent groups like Crimestoppers and Tell Mama, stressing early reporting is vital for justice and prevention.
“You have my absolute commitment that the Met will be here to protect you and to keep you safe,” Dame Lynne concluded.
