London’s Metropolitan Police have issued a firm warning ahead of Sunday’s Al Quds Day demonstration, vowing to "act decisively" against "intifada" chants and any displays of hate speech.
Scotland Yard is preparing for a "difficult public order" environment, with at least 1,000 officers deployed to manage an anticipated crowd of around 12,000 people, amid the ongoing conflict in Iran.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood granted the police’s request for a month-long ban on the annual march, organised by the Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC).
This marks the first such protest restriction since 2012, though a "static protest" remains legally permissible.
In its latest statement, the Met affirmed: "Officers on the ground will act decisively and be briefed on placards, flags and chanting that will cross the line into hate crime or support of a proscribed organisation."
The force added: "We will also take action where we see chants calling for intifada. We know these words have consequences." Anyone marching or inciting others to march will face arrest.
Intifada, an Arabic term for "uprising," commonly refers to Palestinian resistance movements.
The Met previously stated in December that protesters chanting "globalise the intifada" would be arrested, noting that the "context has changed" following the Bondi Beach terror attack in Australia.
Police patrols will also be deployed around places of worship, community venues, and embassies on Sunday, according to Met Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan.
The annual Al Quds Day demonstration has faced criticism for apparent backing of the Iranian regime, with organisers having expressed support for the country’s late leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
A counter-protest is also planned, with police utilising the River Thames as a physical barrier to prevent clashes – a tactic believed to be a first for Scotland Yard in separating large-scale demonstrations.
All protests and counter-protests are permitted between 1pm and 3pm, situated between Vauxhall and Lambeth bridges. Counter-protesters can assemble on the Millbank side of the Thames, while Lambeth Bridge will be closed to all but emergency vehicles.
Al Quds Day, named after the Arabic term for Jerusalem, is traditionally observed on the last Friday of Ramadan.
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