Dozens of Counter-Protesters Arrested at Pro-Palestinian March in London
Counter-protests turn violent as clashes erupt between far-right groups and police during pro-Palestinian march in London As crowds gather to observe Armistice Day, tensions escalate ahead of planned demonstrations in solidarity with Palestine
More than 80 counter-protesters were apprehended by the London Metropolitan Police on Saturday as they tried to confront participants of a large pro-Palestinian rally. The individuals were detained in order to avert a potential disturbance of public peace.
In central London's Hyde Park Corner, a significant police presence was observed as demonstrators raised their voices in unison, calling for "freedom, freedom for Palestine" and an immediate ceasefire. Their chants of "from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!" resounded in the area.
A protester, speaking to CNN, expressed her astonishment at the double standards exhibited by those supporting Ukraine while disregarding the plight of Palestine.
She added that while some politicians may support our cause, they lack the courage to openly express it.
Another protester expressed their admiration for the significant turnout at the march, stating that it served as a source of inspiration. They emphasized the importance of advocating for those who are unable to speak for themselves.
Far-right scuffle with police
The Metropolitan Police reported encountering significant numbers of aggressive counter-protesters who had stormed the area. This occurred prior to what could potentially be the largest march since the commencement of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The police stated that they would employ all available powers and tactics to prevent the counter-protesters from confronting the pro-Palestinian march. Prior to this, a gathering had taken place at the Cenotaph monument to commemorate Remembrance Day and honor those who lost their lives in conflicts.
A CNN team present at the scene witnessed a raucous protest by far-right demonstrators attempting to breach the exclusion zone surrounding the war memorial. The area's robust police presence was evident as shouts rang out throughout the incident. Organized by prominent figure Tommy Robinson, the demonstration aimed to gain access to the highly symbolic landmark situated in Whitehall, the heart of London where the Prime Minister and government departments are based.
During the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the United Kingdom has long observed a two-minute silence to honor the moment when guns ceased firing, symbolizing the end of World War I in 1918.
Attendees pay their respects at the Cenotaph ahead of a pro-Palestinian rally.
Carlos Jasso/Bloomberg/Getty Images
A video shared by the anti-racist group Hope Not Hate depicted incidents of far-right protestors clad in black attire pushing against the police barriers in different locations within Whitehall. This unrest ensued following a political dispute sparked by the pro-Palestinian demonstrations earlier in the week, during which Britain's Home Secretary Suella Braverman deviated from her prepared speech to criticize the police for their perceived leniency towards the protestors.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak initially tried to prevent the pro-Palestinian protest from happening. However, he later conceded to the fact that the march would proceed. Sunak continued to assert that choosing to protest on this specific weekend is not only disrespectful but also undermines our deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have contributed to our freedom and peace today.
The disorder witnessed at London's Cenotaph on Saturday is directly attributed to Braverman's remarks, according to London Mayor Sadiq Khan. Khan expressed his full support to the Metropolitan Police in taking necessary measures against individuals who instigate hate and engage in illegal activities.
