Metropolitan Police Issue Stern Warning to Iran Protesters Ahead of London Al Quds Day Gathering
The Metropolitan Police have issued a strong warning to protesters as thousands are set to gather in London for the annual Al Quds Day demonstration this Sunday. Officers have stated they will "act decisively" against any chants or placards deemed to spread hate, specifically targeting the use of the term "intifada."
Large-Scale Police Operation Planned
Scotland Yard is preparing for what it describes as a "difficult public order" situation, with at least 1,000 officers deployed to manage an anticipated crowd of around 12,000 people. This significant police presence underscores the seriousness with which authorities are approaching the event.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has granted a police request for a month-long ban on the march organised by the Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC). This marks the first such protest restriction since 2012. Despite the ban, participants can still legally assemble for a "static protest," with the IHRC confirming the demonstration will proceed "in defiance of a Government ban on the march."
Novel Tactics and Counter-Protests
In a novel operational approach, police will use the River Thames as a physical barrier to prevent clashes between opposing groups. This tactic is believed to be a first for Scotland Yard on this scale. A counter-protest, co-organised by Stop The Hate and The Lion Guard of Iran group, is also planned, with Iranian dissidents expected to join.
All demonstrations are permitted between 1pm and 3pm, taking place between Vauxhall and Lambeth bridges. Counter-protesters will assemble on the Millbank side of the Thames, while the Al Quds Day demonstration will be situated at Albert Embankment. Lambeth Bridge will be closed to all but emergency vehicles.
Police Stance on Hate Speech and Security Measures
The Metropolitan Police reiterated its firm stance, stating: "Officers on the ground will act decisively and be briefed on placards, flags and chanting that will cross the line into hate crime or support of a proscribed organisation." The force added: "We will also take action where we see chants calling for intifada. We know these words have consequences. Anyone marching or inciting others to march will face arrest."
"Intifada," an Arabic word for "uprising," often refers to Palestinian resistance movements against Israel. The Met previously announced in December that protesters chanting "globalise the intifada" would be arrested, citing a "changed context" following the Bondi Beach terror attack in Australia.
Met Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan confirmed that police patrols would also be deployed around places of worship, community venues, and embassies on Sunday to ensure broader security. Al Quds Day, named after the Arabic term for Jerusalem, is traditionally observed on the last Friday of Ramadan.
The annual event has previously drawn criticism over alleged backing for the Iranian regime, with organisers expressing support for the country’s late leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This has contributed to the heightened tensions and police preparations for the upcoming demonstration.
