Small Boat Migrant Accused of Terror Plot at London's Israeli Embassy
A migrant who arrived in the UK on a small boat is on trial for allegedly attempting to attack the Israeli embassy in London, armed with two knives and a so-called 'martyrdom note'. The Old Bailey heard that Abdullah Albadri, 34, sought to 'exact revenge' for the killing of children in Gaza, in an incident described by prosecutors as a planned act of terrorism.
Details of the Alleged Attack
According to prosecutor Catherine Pattison, Albadri, wearing a red-and-white scarf over his head and face, jumped onto an 8-foot fence at the heavily guarded embassy in Palace Green, Kensington, on 28 April 2025. She stated that he was 'almost successful' in scaling the barrier and would have entered the grounds if not for armed diplomatic protection officers who intervened.
Police later seized several pieces of paper, including one that prosecutors claim functioned as a martyrdom note. Albadri reportedly told officers he wanted to 'send a message, to stop the killing of children, to stop the war', which authorities linked to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Defence and Prosecution Arguments
In a prepared statement, Albadri denied planning a terrorist act, asserting that the knives were for 'personal use' due to his homelessness. However, Ms Pattison countered that his actions, combined with the note and material from his mobile phone, demonstrated an intent to use violence against embassy personnel and sacrifice his life 'for the glory of God'.
'The prosecution say that Mr Albadri's intention was to use or threaten serious violence against the Israeli government, to exact revenge for its alleged murder of children,' she explained. 'Thus, this was an act of terrorism intended to influence the government for a religious or political cause.'
Background and Legal Proceedings
The court learned that Albadri, born in Kuwait, first entered the UK in August 2021 via a small boat from France at Dover. He applied for permission to stay but did not attend a Home Office interview, later leaving the country only to return on another small boat in April 2025.
Albadri faces charges of preparation of terrorist acts and possession of two bladed articles, which he denies. The trial continues as jurors examine evidence including the alleged martyrdom note and his statements to police.
