Al Quds march banned in London after police cite ‘severe’ risks
Al Quds Day Demonstration Blocked in London Over ‘Significant’ Concerns
The annual Al Quds march, organized to show solidarity with the Palestinian population, has been halted in London by authorities. This decision comes as the Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, endorsed the Metropolitan Police’s request to cancel the event, citing the need to “avoid serious public disturbances.”
The ban was attributed to the “magnitude of the gathering and numerous opposing demonstrations,” according to the Home Secretary. While a static demonstration is still permitted, it will be under tight surveillance.
Opposition to the march has intensified following the October 7 incursion by Hamas into Israel and the subsequent aerial assaults on Gaza. Critics argue that the event has become a focal point for political tensions, particularly since organizers voiced backing for Ali Khamenei, the late supreme leader of Iran.
“The demise of Ayatollah Khamenei will be remembered by those who value liberty across the globe,” the Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC) remarked last week. The organization dismissed the cancellation as a “politically motivated choice,” emphasizing that it was not driven by the safety of Londoners.
The Metropolitan Police cited the Iranian government’s actions as a key factor in their decision. They highlighted the recent arrests of four individuals by counter-terrorism units, accused of monitoring Jewish communities.
Historically, the march has been linked to incidents involving support for extremist groups and antisemitic acts. This year’s request for a ban, however, was deemed particularly urgent due to “unusual dangers and complexities.”
“The risks are so intense that limiting the protest’s scope will not be adequate,” the police stated. They also mentioned the potential for heightened conflict, given the volatile conditions in the Middle East, where the Iranian regime has targeted British allies and military installations abroad.
Despite the ban, the IHRC expressed hope that attendees would still gather for the stationary rally and is considering legal options to challenge the decision.
The Metropolitan Police clarified that they do not favor specific ideologies, but prioritize minimizing violence and chaos. “We do not regulate taste or political perspectives, yet we act to safeguard public order,” they stated.
More from Sky News: Assessing the UK’s naval capabilities | Verifying Trump’s claims about Iran
