Home Secretary Suella Braverman has called on police to use the 'full force of the law' against displays of support for Hamas, following a surprise attack by Palestinian militants on Israel. In a statement on Sunday, Braverman said there must be 'zero tolerance for antisemitism or glorification of terrorism on the streets of Britain'.
Her comments came after videos emerged of people in the UK appearing to celebrate the attacks, which included the seizure of dozens of hostages. The Metropolitan Police has increased patrols in areas of north London with large Jewish communities.
Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick also urged police to intervene, sharing a video posted by television personality Rachel Riley. Riley reported seeing cars with Palestinian flags in west London, with occupants 'seemingly celebrating like they were having a party'.
In a separate incident, barrister Charlotte Proudman posted a video of a car with Palestinian flags sounding its horn, describing it as 'the most heinous act of public hate I have seen on the streets of London'.
Scotland Yard acknowledged the incidents and said it had increased patrols to provide reassurance. The force stated it would ensure an appropriate policing plan for any protests, as the Palestine Solidarity Campaign called for an emergency demonstration outside the Israeli embassy.
Labour leader Keir Starmer condemned the attack, calling it 'an appalling act of terrorism' with 'no justification'. He argued that Hamas had deliberately pushed back the prospect of peace.
