Police in London have initiated an investigation into the chanting of “death, death to the IDF (Israel Defence Forces)” by Bobby Vylan during the Al-Quds day protest. Bobby Vylan, whose real name is Pascal Robinson-Foster, repeated the controversial chant at the demonstration. The Metropolitan Police reported 12 arrests made during the protest and counter-protest activities. The police mentioned that they are looking into the chants made by a speaker at the Al-Quds protest.
Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan stated that fewer people attended the event than expected due to restrictions, making it easier for officers to maintain order. The police made arrests for various offenses, including supporting a proscribed organization and disorderly conduct. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood approved a one-month ban on the annual march organized by the Islamic Human Rights Commission.
At the protest, attendees displayed Palestine flags and banners with messages like “Free Palestine” and “No to Israeli occupation.” Some protesters carried signs with slogans like “Boom boom Tel Aviv” and held up images of Iran’s late leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Counter-protesters on the opposite side of the Thames waved Israeli flags and displayed signs denouncing Hamas as a terrorist organization.
During the demonstration, police presence was visible, with boats deployed on the River Thames to separate the protest and counter-protest groups. All gatherings were confined between Vauxhall and Lambeth bridges, authorized to take place between 1pm and 3pm. The Al-Quds Day event, traditionally held on the last Friday of Ramadan, has faced criticism for its perceived support of the Iranian regime and controversial slogans.