Three Individuals Face Court Over Alleged 'Intifada' Chants at Westminster Protest
The Metropolitan Police has confirmed that three people have been charged in connection with alleged chants calling for an 'intifada' during a protest outside the Ministry of Justice in Westminster. This development follows a significant shift in police policy regarding the handling of such slogans, announced earlier on the same day as the arrests.
Details of the Charges and Defendants
The defendants, identified as Haya Adam, 21, and Azza Zaki, 60, both of Edgware Road in central London, along with Abdallah Alanzi, 24, of Fortunegate Road in Brent, were arrested on Wednesday, December 17. They are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on February 23 to face charges related to their alleged involvement in the chanting.
According to the Metropolitan Police, the trio were identified as allegedly participating in chants that called for an 'intifada' during the demonstration at Petty France. The force emphasised that its investigation considered not only the 'intifada' chant but also other vocalisations heard throughout the protest. The charges have been brought to reflect the totality of the alleged offending on that evening, indicating a comprehensive assessment of the events.
Policy Shift and Context of the Arrests
The arrests occurred on the very day that the Metropolitan Police, under Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, and the Greater Manchester Police, led by Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson, announced a more assertive approach to antisemitic hate crime. This policy change was directly influenced by the tragic mass shooting at Bondi Beach on December 14, 2025, which claimed the lives of 15 individuals during a Jewish festival celebrating Hanukkah.
In a joint statement, the police leaders clarified the new stance, stating: We know communities are concerned about placards and chants such as 'globalise the intifada', and those using it at future protests or in a targeted way should expect the Met and GMP to take action. They further explained that violent acts have taken place, the context has changed - words have meaning and consequence. The message was unequivocal: We will act decisively and make arrests.
Legal Proceedings and Public Interest
A spokesperson for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) outlined the basis for proceeding with the case. Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings, the spokesperson said. The CPS also noted its close collaboration with the Metropolitan Police throughout the investigation.
The spokesperson issued a stern reminder regarding the active nature of the proceedings: We remind all concerned that proceedings against these defendants are active and that they have the right to a fair trial. It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings. This caution underscores the sensitivity and legal gravity of the case.
Background: The Bondi Beach Attack and Its Aftermath
The policy shift and subsequent arrests are set against the backdrop of the devastating Bondi Beach terror attack. On December 14, 2025, father and son Sajid and Naveed Akram allegedly opened fire on families celebrating 'Chanukah by the Sea' from the northern pedestrian bridge. The attack resulted in 15 fatalities and numerous injuries, sending shockwaves through communities locally and internationally.
The northern bridge, a heritage-listed structure built in the late 1920s and protected under the Crown Lands Management Act, has since become a focal point of intense scrutiny and emotional debate. In the wake of the tragedy, Waverley Council acknowledged a wide range of views regarding the future of the footbridge at Bondi, with some community members advocating for its destruction.
The Council has stated that any decision regarding the bridge will require extensive consultation with the Jewish community, the wider Waverley community, the families of the victims, and the New South Wales Government. Officials have clarified that no final decision has been made, but any action will be considered in the context of future discussions on establishing a permanent memorial in Bondi Park to honour the victims of the Bondi Beach terror attack.
Adding to the complexity, a 2024 structural review had already warned that both the north and south pedestrian bridges were deteriorating, recommending replacement within the next few years. The future of the site remains uncertain as authorities balance practical, historical, and deeply emotional considerations.
Councillors are also reviewing several community-focused initiatives in response to the tragedy. Proposals include hosting a formal event to honour emergency personnel, allocating sections of the Bondi Beach Sea Wall for community art over the coming year, and staging an exhibition at the Bondi Pavilion Art Gallery. These measures aim to foster healing and remembrance in a community grappling with profound loss.
The alleged perpetrators, Naveed Akram and his father Sajid, face severe legal consequences if convicted. It is reported that Naveed Akram will likely never leave the confines of Goulburn's Supermax prison if found guilty of the murders. This case, along with the charges in Westminster, highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement and societies face in addressing hate-motivated actions and their far-reaching repercussions.
