Disturbing footage has emerged showing the moment Metropolitan Police officers arrested a prominent Jewish solicitor after pro-Palestine protesters complained that his Star of David necklace was "provocative" and "antagonising".
The incident occurred near the Aldwych area in central London, where Gideon Falter, chief executive of the Campaign Against Antisemitism, was attempting to cross the road while wearing a kippah and traditional Jewish necklace.
'You're openly Jewish'
In the viral video, a police officer can be heard telling Mr Falter: "You're quite openly Jewish, this is a pro-Palestinian march. I'm not accusing you of anything, but I'm worried about the reaction to your presence."
The officer further stated that the presence of a Jewish person wearing religious symbols could "antagonise" protesters, leading to concerns about public disorder.
Scotland Yard under fire
The Metropolitan Police faces mounting criticism after making the arrest, with Jewish community leaders and legal experts condemning the decision as "disgusting" and "institutional antisemitism".
Mr Falter, who was detained for allegedly breaching the peace, later described the experience as "one of the most shameful moments in the history of the Metropolitan Police".
Growing tensions in London
The arrest highlights escalating tensions surrounding the ongoing pro-Palestine demonstrations in the capital, with many in the Jewish community expressing concerns about their safety and freedom of movement.
Scotland Yard has defended its actions, stating officers were attempting to prevent a "potential breach of the peace", but has faced calls for an urgent review of its policing approach to protests involving religious communities.
