Metropolitan Police Issue Firm Warning Ahead of Al Quds Day Demonstration in London
The Metropolitan Police in London have issued a stern warning to participants ahead of the upcoming Al Quds Day demonstration, scheduled for Sunday. Authorities have vowed to "act decisively" against any instances of hate speech or chants calling for "intifada," with a significant police presence planned to manage the event.
Large Crowd Expected Amid Heightened Security Measures
Scotland Yard is preparing for what they describe as a "difficult public order" situation, with approximately 12,000 people expected to attend the demonstration. In response, at least 1,000 officers will be deployed to oversee the gathering, which comes against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has granted a police request for a month-long ban on the annual march, organised by the Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC). This marks the first such prohibition since 2012, although a "static protest" remains legally permissible under the restrictions.
Police to Take Action Against Hate Speech and Prohibited Chants
In a recent statement, the Metropolitan Police emphasised their readiness to intervene: "Officers on the ground will act decisively and be briefed on placards, flags and chanting that will cross the line into hate crime or support of a proscribed organisation." The force added, "We will also take action where we see chants calling for intifada. We know these words have consequences." Anyone found marching or inciting others to march in violation of the ban will face arrest.
The term "intifada," an Arabic word meaning "uprising," is often associated with Palestinian resistance movements. The Met previously stated in December that protesters chanting "globalise the intifada" would be arrested, citing a changed context following the Bondi Beach terror attack in Australia.
Enhanced Security and Counter-Protest Arrangements
Police patrols will be deployed around key locations on Sunday, including places of worship, community venues, and embassies, according to Met Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan. The annual Al Quds Day demonstration has faced criticism for its perceived support of the Iranian regime, with organisers having expressed backing for the country's late leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
A counter-protest is also planned, prompting police to employ an innovative tactic: using the River Thames as a physical barrier to prevent clashes between groups. This approach is believed to be a first for Scotland Yard in managing large-scale demonstrations. All protests and counter-protests are permitted between 1pm and 3pm, with activities confined to the area between Vauxhall and Lambeth bridges.
Counter-protesters will assemble on the Millbank side of the Thames, while Lambeth Bridge will be closed to all traffic except emergency vehicles. Al Quds Day, named after the Arabic term for Jerusalem, is traditionally observed on the last Friday of Ramadan, drawing attention to political and religious issues in the region.
