In a powerful display of solidarity, an estimated 100,000 pro-Palestinian protesters flooded the streets of central London, urging an immediate end to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. This massive demonstration, held on Saturday afternoon, attracted participants who waved flags, carried banners, and ignited flares and fireworks, painting a vibrant picture against the backdrop of closed-off roads in Westminster.
The protest, which was predominantly peaceful, was closely monitored by approximately 1,000 police officers assigned to maintain order. Despite stringent security measures, two arrests were made during the course of the event.
During the protest, tensions escalated near Downing Street, as police were seen clashing with some pro-Palestinian demonstrators. The situation escalated when punches and kicks were exchanged, forcing officers to intervene and disperse the protesters. One individual was subsequently detained, leading other demonstrators to demand their release with fervent chants of “let him go.”
Amidst the impassioned crowd, cries of “Allahu akbar,” the Arabic phrase for “God is great,” reverberated through the air. Alongside these chants, some protesters vocally declared, “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.” Notwithstanding the controversy surrounding the slogan’s interpretation, pro-Palestinian activists have offered an alternative view, challenging allegations of anti-Semitism and advocating for Palestinian freedom.
The rally did not go unnoticed by its opponents, as counter-demonstrators waving Union flags, positioned near the Cenotaph on Whitehall, attracted criticism from the pro-Palestinian marchers who chanted “shame on you” in response. The counter-protesters countered with their own chants of “free Palestine from Hamas.”
Despite moments of tension, the event retained its largely peaceful character. However, an incident occurred involving a police horse that was startled by fireworks, causing a woman to be momentarily knocked over. Thankfully, she quickly recovered and resumed her participation in the protest.
The rally, which commenced at noon, evolved into a vibrant march through the heart of Westminster, temporarily halting traffic as its impassioned participants made their voices heard. Among the notable figures who addressed the demonstrators on a stage in Parliament Square was former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.
In his speech, Corbyn highlighted the international community’s recent call for a ceasefire, as demonstrated by the overwhelming majority of nations that voted in favor of such action during a United Nations General Assembly session. He emphasized the urgency of ending the violence, particularly when innocent children bear the brunt of the conflict.
Meanwhile, the London boroughs of the City of Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea saw the implementation of Section 60 and Section 60AA authority, which granted the police stop and search powers until midnight. Section 60AA also required individuals to remove items that could potentially conceal their identity, such as masks.
Notably, solidarity with Palestine resonated beyond London, with protests occurring in various other cities across the United Kingdom, including Manchester, Glasgow, and Belfast.
Overall, the massive pro-Palestinian rally in London served as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of global conflicts on the passions and unity of communities around the world.
PA Media/dpa/NAN
