LONDON: Thousands of people gathered in cities across the UK on Saturday for pro-Palestinian demonstrations, expressing solidarity with the innocent people of Gaza amidst escalating tensions. Despite police warnings that support for the Hamas resistance group could lead to arrest, attendees marched through London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and other cities, voicing their concerns about the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
In London, demonstrators congregated near BBC News’ headquarters and later held a rally near Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Downing Street office and residence. Palestinian flags and placards with slogans such as “freedom for Palestine,” “end the massacre,” and “sanctions for Israel” were prominent in the crowd. Chants denouncing Prime Minister Sunak echoed through the streets.
Ismail Patel, chairman of the Friends of Al-Aqsa campaign, emphasized the importance of global solidarity, stating, “I think all just people around the world, not just in Britain, must stand up and call for this madness (to end). Otherwise, in the coming few days, people might see a catastrophe unfolding.”
London now! pic.twitter.com/yct5vPxq5Q
— Husam Zomlot (@hzomlot) October 14, 2023
https://twitter.com/Ali7861216216/status/1713238801307627978
Rally Against Israeli Atrocities on Palestinians
The London Metropolitan Police Service deployed over 1,000 officers in response to the rally. In light of the ongoing conflict and increased anti-Semitic incidents in the UK, the police emphasized that general expressions of support for Palestinians, including displaying the Palestinian flag, were not criminal offenses.
Ferouza Namaz, a student from Uzbekistan, voiced her outrage at the situation, highlighting the innocence of Gaza’s civilians. “Just being Palestinian does not give the rights to kill them. These Israeli atrocities have been taking place for several years,” she said.
Jeremy Corbyn, the former leader of the Labour party, addressed the London rally, urging adherence to international law and human rights principles. “If you believe in human rights, if you believe in international law, then you must condemn what is happening now in Gaza by the Israeli army,” Corbyn stated.
A massive demonstration in London City is currently underway in solidarity with the people of Palestine against the Israelian war crimes in Gaza.🇵🇸
A British-Jewish woman speaks out against the Israeli Government Live on TV. 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/HOlNSirs7F
— Dr. Anastasia Maria Loupis (@DrLoupis) October 14, 2023
