UK
Met Police step up patrols in London as people accused of ‘glorifying terrorist activities of Hamas’
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.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman said she expects officers to “use the full force of the law” against displays of support for the militant group.
In a statement, the Met said it had been made aware of a number of incidents in the capital – some shared on social media – that were related to the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.
Read more: Israeli commander killed in ‘encounter with a terrorist’ – Israel-Gaza latest
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.
Suella Braverman calls for ‘zero tolerance’ for antisemitism
“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.
“I expect the police to use the full force of the law against displays of support for Hamas, other proscribed terrorist groups or attempts to intimidate British Jews.”
Anyone who experiences threatening behaviour or is worried about their safety is being urged to contact the police.
“We are aware that the ongoing conflict may lead to protests over the coming days,” the Met statement added.
Scotland Yard confirmed “an appropriate policing plan” will be in place that balances the right to protest against disruption to Londoners.
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 said it was a ‘dangerous and terrifying time for all Jews’
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.”
She later posted a video which seemed to show people waving Palestinian flags, beeping car horns and clapping, and said: “Acton, half an hour ago. Popped into a cafe for some baklava with the kids and our Ukrainian friends.
“People have been brutally murdered, kidnapped and there are people in London dancing.
“Just had a reassuring call with the police, if anyone is scared, please call them.”
Mr Jenrick shared Riley’s post on X, formerly known as Twitter, and said: “These disgusting people are glorifying the terrorist activities of Hamas, a proscribed organisation.
“There is no place for this in the UK.
“I trust @metpoliceuk will be taking this seriously.”
London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, said he’d be in touch with senior Met officers
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Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said he had been in touch with senior officers at the Met.
“Tragically, we know that violence in the Middle East can lead to a rise in hate crime in London,” he posted on X.
“Let me be clear – hate crime in London will not be tolerated. Now or ever.”