Mass Protests in Central London: Divided Crowds Rally Over Immigration and Palestinian Support
Tens of thousands participated in two distinct protests in London, one against immigration and perceived Islamic threats, and another in support of Palestinians. Police made 43 arrests amidst heightened security. Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized the anti-Islam march, organized by Tommy Robinson. Pro-Palestinian marchers commemorated Nakba Day, highlighting ongoing conflict issues.
Tens of thousands marched through central London on Saturday in two separate protests. One rally opposed high immigration levels, perceiving an Islamic threat to British identity. The other supported Palestinians, marking Nakba Day and calling for an end to conflict in Gaza.
Police deployed 4,000 officers in one of their largest public order operations in years. By 1830 GMT, 43 arrests were made for various offences, with both protests described as 'largely without significant incident'.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized the Unite the Kingdom march, organized by anti-Islam activist Tommy Robinson, as 'peddling hate and division'. Meanwhile, pro-Palestinian demonstrators decried Israeli actions, amid recent racial tensions following a spate of anti-Jewish incidents in London.
(With inputs from agencies.)
Google News