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On a day marked by contrasting sentiments, numerous pro-Palestinian demonstrators took to the streets in various cities across the United Kingdom. This mobilization follows a strong appeal from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who labeled the marches as un-British, particularly as it coincided with the second anniversary of the Hamas-led attacks against Israel.
Among the throngs of students and activists, the atmosphere was charged with calls for a free Palestine and condemnation of Israeli actions, which many attendees labeled as terrorism. The gathering at King’s College London was vibrant, with Palestinian flags prominently displayed and chants echoing through the campus.
Public reaction and political implications
Vincent Ge, a second-year computer science student, articulated a sentiment shared by many in attendance. He asserted that there were ample reasons for individuals to voice their beliefs. He questioned the Prime Minister’s characterization of the protests, arguing that the UK is a tapestry of diverse cultures, making it difficult to define what is ‘un-British.’
The ongoing conflict has sparked large-scale protests in central London, drawing thousands who oppose Israel’s military actions.
Recent reports from Gaza’s Health Ministry indicate staggering casualties, with over 67,000 Palestinians reportedly killed amid the ongoing violence. This humanitarian crisis continues to fuel public outrage and calls for action.
Impact of recent violent incidents
The political landscape has been further complicated by a tragic event last Thursday when a terror attack occurred during Yom Kippur at a synagogue in Manchester.
The suspect, Jihad Al-Shamie, a British national of Syrian descent, instigated a horrific attack that resulted in the deaths of two Jewish men. This incident has intensified scrutiny on the Labour government, with critics claiming insufficient measures have been taken to combat the surge in antisemitism since the onset of the conflict.
According to the Community Security Trust, there were over 1,500 documented incidents of antisemitism in the first half of 2025, underscoring the pressing need for effective governmental responses. During a vigil for the victims, the Deputy Prime Minister faced backlash from attendees who accused him of contributing to the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Government response and public sentiment
In the wake of these events, the government has committed to enhancing security measures for the Jewish community, which includes increased protection at synagogues. Additionally, officials are contemplating new regulations to manage protests that have led to public disorder, seeking to empower police with greater authority.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood recently urged demonstrators to consider pausing their protests to allow the Jewish community to mourn, labeling ongoing demonstrations as un-British. Despite these calls, protests continued, including one that took place in Trafalgar Square, resulting in nearly 500 arrests.
The role of public opinion
In an article for The Times, Starmer expressed concern over the rising tide of antisemitism, noting that the normalization of such sentiments poses a significant threat to societal cohesion. He emphasized that the protests scheduled for the anniversary of the attacks were not reflective of British values and called for greater respect among communities.
Various rallies, including one organized by the Justice for Palestine Society at Glasgow University, were planned for the same day. Promotional materials for this event highlighted the themes of resistance and remembrance for those lost in the conflict.
Among the throngs of students and activists, the atmosphere was charged with calls for a free Palestine and condemnation of Israeli actions, which many attendees labeled as terrorism. The gathering at King’s College London was vibrant, with Palestinian flags prominently displayed and chants echoing through the campus.0
Voices from both sides
Among the throngs of students and activists, the atmosphere was charged with calls for a free Palestine and condemnation of Israeli actions, which many attendees labeled as terrorism. The gathering at King’s College London was vibrant, with Palestinian flags prominently displayed and chants echoing through the campus.1
Among the throngs of students and activists, the atmosphere was charged with calls for a free Palestine and condemnation of Israeli actions, which many attendees labeled as terrorism. The gathering at King’s College London was vibrant, with Palestinian flags prominently displayed and chants echoing through the campus.2
Among the throngs of students and activists, the atmosphere was charged with calls for a free Palestine and condemnation of Israeli actions, which many attendees labeled as terrorism. The gathering at King’s College London was vibrant, with Palestinian flags prominently displayed and chants echoing through the campus.3
Among the throngs of students and activists, the atmosphere was charged with calls for a free Palestine and condemnation of Israeli actions, which many attendees labeled as terrorism. The gathering at King’s College London was vibrant, with Palestinian flags prominently displayed and chants echoing through the campus.4
