Israel-Hamas war: London protests planned as policing operation steps up

The Met Police is increasing its presence on London’s streets with protests planned over the conflict following the assault on Israel.

On Saturday the conflicted began when Hamas militants entered Israel and thousands of rockets were fired into the country.

More than 700 people in Israel have been killed, along with more than 400 in Gaza.

In Israel, the bodies of more than 200 hundred people shot while attending a music festival have been recovered.

The Met says several protests are planned in London on Monday (October 9), including a Stop The War demonstration outside the Israeli Embassy in Kensington.

The force is in liaison with organisers and says an “appropriate policing plan is in place that balances the right to lawful protest against any disruption to Londoners”.

Over the weekend police attended a “small number of low level public order incidents in different parts of London”. Footage on social media appeared to show people celebrating the attacks by Hamas - a designated terrorist organisation. The force says officers “were able to resolve them without arrests”.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine said: “We are aware that this conflict has a far reaching impact on communities around the world, and we extend our full support to those affected in London.

“We are listening and working with communities and partners to ensure people feel safe and protected. We ask that members of the public report anything concerning, such as threatening behaviour.

“We are aware that a number of demonstrations and protests are planned. We have spoken to the organisers and we expect these will pass off peacefully. However, we will take a zero tolerance approach to any activity which crosses the lines into criminality.”

The Met says it has been in contact with synagogues, mosques, and businesses to discuss concerns and provide safety advice.

Mayor Sadiq Khan said he is in close contact with the Met and communities across the city, adding: “Let me be clear: hate crime in London will not be tolerated.”

Anyone with concerns, or who has witnessed any offences, should contact police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.