Dozens Arrested as Anti-Israel Protest In London Turns Violent

On Saturday, anti-Israel protests in London resulted in clashes with police, leading to the arrest of 77 individuals. The protest, organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), began earlier than planned, bypassing the designated starting point and defying pre-approved police conditions. The protestors made their way from Whitehall, breaking through police lines near Trafalgar Square before being stopped.

The Metropolitan Police had set specific parameters for the protest route to avoid proximity to a synagogue during Shabbat services. Despite these conditions, the protestors moved an hour ahead of schedule, resulting in a tense standoff between demonstrators and police. The MET stated that protestors breached police lines, forcing their way into Trafalgar Square and continuing to clash with officers until they were halted.

A total of 77 individuals were arrested, including protest organizer Chris Nineham, who was reportedly leading the march. The arrests included those for breach of conditions, public order offenses, and even assaulting officers. One individual was detained for displaying a placard with support for proscribed terrorist organizations, while another faced charges for inciting racial hatred with inflammatory symbols.

The PSC and former Labour MP Jeremy Corbyn denied the police’s version of events. They maintained that the demonstrators were allowed by police to proceed, with Corbyn describing their actions as peaceful.

The protest was initially organized to criticize what the PSC deemed biased news coverage from the BBC regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. However, as the day unfolded, the protest grew to encompass broader demands, including the removal of police restrictions and calls for greater freedom of expression.

Ben Jamal, PSC’s director, outlined the group’s demands, which included the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the cessation of the blockade on the region. He also condemned British complicity in what he described as Israel’s system of apartheid.

In response, the police stated they had acted within the law to protect public safety and prevent any escalation of violence. They also pointed to the significant number of arrests as a sign of their determination to uphold order in the face of increasing tension.

Jewish Community Concerns

Amid the protests, members of the Jewish community expressed concerns about potential threats to local synagogues and Shabbat worshippers. Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis and the Board of Deputies of British Jews commended the police for their handling of the situation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public safety and security during religious services.

The Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, expressed support for the police's actions, stressing that all individuals should be able to worship in peace.