Police to Use Thames as Separator at Al Quds Rally
On Sunday, law enforcement officials in central London will deploy the River Thames as a strategic barrier to divide demonstrators from counter-protesters during the Al Quds Day event. This measure is part of broader efforts to manage the anticipated large turnout and mitigate potential clashes.
March to Home Office Banned
The Met’s decision to block the planned march to the Home Office came after Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood approved the move to “prevent serious public disorder.” The protest organizers, the Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC), were accused of backing the Iranian regime, marking the first such ban by the Metropolitan Police in 14 years.
The Met stated the ban was driven by concerns over community tensions and the need to address an “intelligence gap” among other factors.
Static Protest as Alternative
In response, the IHRC announced it would proceed with a “static” demonstration, framing it as a peaceful, pro-Palestinian gathering. The group contested the ban as a “politically motivated decision,” emphasizing its commitment to non-violent expression.
Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan highlighted the Thames as a “new bespoke tactic” tailored to the specific challenges of the Al Quds rally, which is expected to attract at least 6,000 participants. Counter-protesters are projected to number 6,000 or more, with the possibility of “significantly higher” attendance due to ongoing regional tensions.
Policing Strategy and Measures
Authorities have closed Lambeth and Vauxhall Bridges to all traffic, except emergency vehicles, while restricting movement to Albert Embankment for protesters and Millbank for counter-protesters. Over 1,000 officers, including community units and other forces, will be deployed to oversee the event.
Adelekan affirmed that officers will be trained to respond swiftly to disruptions, targeting placards, flags, and chants. A “zero tolerance” policy for hate crime will also be enforced, with individuals endorsing proscribed groups facing arrest.
“The ban and policing measures don’t eliminate the risk of disorder, but they will make the protest much more manageable,” Adelekan stated.
Legacy of Al Quds Day
The tradition of Al Quds Day began following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, typically observed on the final Friday of Ramadan. While marches occur globally, the IHRC describes the event as a demonstration of solidarity with Palestine. This year’s iteration in London features heightened security measures amid heightened regional volatility.
