The Metropolitan Police has launched a major investigation following disturbing anti-Semitic chants heard during a pro-Palestine demonstration in central London over the weekend.
Shocking footage circulating online shows a group of protesters marching through the city centre while chanting the deeply offensive phrase 'death to Jews' repeatedly. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from community leaders and politicians across the political spectrum.
Police Response and Investigation
Scotland Yard confirmed they are treating the incident as a hate crime and have dedicated significant resources to identifying those responsible. 'We are aware of a video showing offensive chanting during a protest in central London,' a Metropolitan Police spokesperson stated.
'The contents are deeply disturbing and we are actively working to identify those involved. This kind of hateful behaviour has no place on our streets and will not be tolerated.'
Community Leaders Express Horror
Jewish community organisations have expressed both outrage and concern over the escalating rhetoric witnessed at recent demonstrations. The Board of Deputies of British Jews described the chants as 'sickening' and called for immediate action against the perpetrators.
Meanwhile, the Campaign Against Antisemitism emphasised the need for robust police intervention, stating that such explicit calls for violence create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation for London's Jewish residents.
Political Condemnation Across Parties
The incident has drawn strong condemnation from both government and opposition figures. A government spokesperson reiterated that 'there is no place for anti-Semitism in our society' and praised the police investigation.
Labour Party representatives similarly condemned the 'abhorrent' language, emphasising that legitimate protest must never descend into hate speech or incitement to violence.
The investigation continues as police examine multiple video sources and witness statements to build cases against individuals involved in the offensive chanting.
