Pro-Palestinian Marchers Chant Slogans in London on Oct. 7 Anniversary

Approximately 100 demonstrators gathered in London to chant pro-Palestinian slogans on the third anniversary of the October 7 attacks. The rally, which took place at Lincoln's Inn Fields, saw protesters shouting phrases including 'From the river to the sea Palestine will be free'. Despite police restrictions from the previous day against wearing face coverings that obscure identity, a number of marchers reportedly disobeyed the order.

The Metropolitan Police imposed stringent conditions on the demonstration, requiring participants to gather by 12:30 p.m. and follow a specific route from King's College London to University College London. The rally was scheduled to conclude by 2 p.m., after which protesters were expected to disperse. Police warned that participants could face arrest for breaching these conditions.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman stated that the event, occurring on the anniversary of the October 7 attack and the commencement of the conflict in Gaza, would be a day of mourning and reflection for many, acknowledging the serious concerns raised by Jewish communities. "We have zero tolerance for hate crime and those who chant or display placards calling for intifada or encourage unlawful extremism will be arrested," Harman said. He added that the police cannot ban protests but can only request the Home Secretary to do so if the risk of serious disorder is unmanageable, a threshold he indicated was not met in this instance.

King's College London announced it would close Strand-facing entrances to three of its buildings for student safety. The demonstration was advertised on social media by student activists who stated their intention to demand an end to the 'Palestinian genocide'. The event marked the third anniversary of the Hamas attacks, in which over 1,200 civilians were killed and 251 hostages were taken.

Police are actively working with universities and other entities to identify the organizers of the University of London Coalition, which is responsible for advertising the event. While social media posts allow police to identify groups involved, no specific individual has yet come forward to claim responsibility. Under Section 11 of the Public Order Act, organizers are required to provide their name and address to the police. The failure to identify an organizer does not automatically meet the legal criteria for banning a procession.

Education Secretary Lucy Powell previously emphasized that the day should be marked with deep mourning for the victims of the October 7 attacks. Concerns have been raised that this march, along with another planned pro-Palestinian protest and potential disorder related to an upcoming by-election, could escalate tensions in London.