London pro-Palestine march sees arrests and firework incidents amidst tension | Watch video

In Pimlico’s Tachbrook Street, approximately 82 counter-protesters were arrested as they tried to approach the pro-Palestinian march. An exclusion zone, encompassing Whitehall, Horse Guards Parade, Westminster Abbey Field of Remembrance, and relevant areas, has been established. Individuals associated with the pro-Palestine demonstration found within these zones are subject to arrest. The Cenotaph will be under 24-hour police guard throughout the weekend.

Amidst clashes between counter-protesters and the police, confrontations occurred near the Cenotaph, in Chinatown, and near Westminster Bridge. About 2,000 officers from the Metropolitan Police and other UK police forces are on guard during the weekend.

While 300,000 pro-Palestinian activists marched through central London urging a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict, police presence remained high. The Cenotaph, though not expected to be approached by the protest, is under continuous police surveillance.

Protesters gathered at Hyde Park from midday, and police mandated that the march conclude by 5 p.m., with dispersal starting around 4 p.m. Several pro-Palestine demonstrators were detained after the discovery of a box containing what was described as ‘fireworks.’ Organizers twice urged against setting off fireworks, citing safety concerns.

In Nine Elms, after a firework was ignited, the crowd was reminded to refrain from such actions for safety reasons. Despite the warning, another firework was set off, prompting a plea to consider the safety of those present.