Police are reviewing all upcoming public events, including a major Stop the War Coalition demonstration planned for May 16, after the national terrorism threat level was raised to 'severe' following recent stabbings in Golders Green.
Security Review of Public Events
The Stop the War Coalition's planned demonstration aims to mark Nakba Day, commemorating the 1948 displacement of Palestinians, and is one of several marches under scrutiny for potential security risks and concerns about antisemitism. Concerns have been raised by organisations like the Community Security Trust (CST) and figures such as Jonathan Hall, independent reviewer of terrorism legislation, who argue that pro-Palestinian marches have provided an environment for antisemitism.
Reactions from Community Leaders
Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage have also called for a 'zero-tolerance' approach to antisemitism and criticised the government's handling of such demonstrations, linking them to a rise in antisemitic incidents. The Stop the War Coalition has strongly denied any connection between recent antisemitic attacks in London and their marches, condemning all forms of antisemitism and stating their demonstrations are in solidarity with Gaza and against the Israeli government's actions, with support from Jewish attendees.
In full, police are 'reviewing' whether protests can go ahead after the UK terror threat level was raised.
