'Public order incidents' reported in London over Israel-Hamas conflict - as police standby for protests

A “small number” of incidents in London in relation to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip have been reported but all were resolved without arrests, police say.

The Metropolitan Police has said it has increased police patrols across London after receiving reports of people appearing to celebrate the attack on Israel by Hamas.

Further demonstrations are planned in the capital, including a Stop The War protest tomorrow.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said she expects officers to “use the full force of the law” against displays of support for the militant group.

Meanwhile, London mayor Sadiq Khan’s office has confirmed that City Hall will be lit up in the colours of the Israeli flag.

Hundreds of people have died and thousands have been injured amid deadly fighting in Israel and the Gaza Strip.

In an update on Sunday evening, the Met said that a small number of “low level public order incidents” in different parts of the city have been reported.

“Police attended all of the incidents and were able to resolve them without arrests being made,” the force added.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine said in a statement: “We are aware that this conflict has a far reaching impact on communities around the world, and we extend our full support to those affected in London.

“We are listening and working with communities and partners to ensure people feel safe and protected. We ask that members of the public report anything concerning, such as threatening behaviour.

“We are aware that a number of demonstrations and protests are planned. We have spoken to the organisers and we expect these will pass off peacefully. However, we will take a zero tolerance approach to any activity which crosses the lines into criminality.”

Home Secretary calls for ‘zero tolerance’

Sky News understands that following consultations yesterday with the police, the Community Security Trust (CST) is working with forces to increase the security level across Jewish community institutions and areas.

Ms Braverman posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Sunday morning, saying: “Whenever Israel is attacked, Islamists and other racists use Israeli defensive measures as a pretext to stir up hatred against British Jews.

“Yesterday I spoke with @CST_UK to ensure the Government is doing everything necessary for the protection of our Jewish communities.

“There must be zero tolerance for antisemitism or glorification of terrorism on the streets of Britain.”

It came after the Met was urged to intervene by immigration minister Robert Jenrick, who shared a video posted on social media by Countdown presenter Rachel Riley after Hamas launched its attack on Israel.

Riley posted on social media: “I just passed two cars in West London driving with Palestinian flags flying from each window, bouncing up and down in their cars, seemingly celebrating like they were having a party.

“Make no mistake, this is a dangerous and terrifying time for all Jews around the world.”

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