Despite concerns from the UK government, a pro-Palestinian rally is set to take place in London. The government, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, had urged the Metropolitan Police to ban the protest, fearing disruption to Armistice Day memorial services and potential public disorder. However, the police confirmed that the march will proceed, stating that banning the protest would be a 'last resort'.
Tens of thousands of people are expected to protest against Israel's war on Gaza, where over 10,550 Palestinians have been killed. The protest is scheduled to begin more than an hour after the traditional two-minute silence on Armistice Day, aiming to avoid interference with remembrance services.
The decision to allow the march has sparked controversy, with Home Secretary Suella Braverman accusing the police of favoritism towards pro-Palestinian protesters. Prime Minister Sunak has vowed to hold the Metropolitan Police Commissioner accountable for his decision to greenlight the march.
Despite the government's opposition, the organiser of the Armistice Day event at the Cenotaph, Richard Hughes from the Western Front Association, has expressed support for the pro-Palestine marches. He stated that they believe the marches should go ahead.
There are concerns that breakaway groups from the main march and counter-protests by far-right groups could lead to violence. The secretary of one of the groups behind the march, the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, was working for Labour until this week.