Tens of thousands of protesters have taken part in pro-Palestinian marches and sit-ins across the UK, calling for an end to Israeli attacks in Gaza. The Metropolitan Police estimated 30,000 demonstrators in central London alone, with similar rallies in cities including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Cardiff, Liverpool and Leeds.
In London, 29 people were arrested for offences including inciting racial hatred, assaulting police, and public order violations. Two were arrested under the Terrorism Act over a banner, and one for antisemitic comments made during a speech. Police reported that fireworks were fired into crowds in Trafalgar Square, injuring four officers, leading to a dispersal order.
Protesters staged sit-ins at Edinburgh and Glasgow railway stations and at London's Charing Cross, briefly disrupting train services. The organisers, including the Stop the War coalition and Palestine Solidarity Campaign, focused on local actions this weekend rather than a single large rally.
In Manchester, a separate vigil by the North West Friends of Israel group honoured hostages taken in the 7 October Hamas attacks, with red balloons attached to names and photos. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ruled out a temporary ceasefire until all hostages are released.
Next Saturday's planned mass rally on Armistice Day has drawn criticism from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Home Secretary Suella Braverman, who called it disrespectful. The Met Police is planning a significant security operation, though organisers insist the march will avoid Whitehall and the Cenotaph.
