UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has indicated that the government may consider new powers to restrict pro-Palestinian marches in certain situations, citing growing concerns about their impact
on the Jewish community.
Speaking to the BBC, Starmer emphasized his support for freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest. However, he drew a clear line at certain chants heard during demonstrations, such as “Globalise the Intifada,” describing them as unacceptable and saying those responsible should face legal consequences.
Pro-Palestinian protests have been a frequent sight in London since the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, which led to the ongoing war in Gaza. While critics argue that some of these demonstrations have fostered hostility and contributed to antisemitism, participants maintain they are exercising their democratic right to raise awareness about humanitarian and political issues in Gaza.
Starmer acknowledged that strong and legitimate views exist regarding the conflict, but said repeated protests have left many in the Jewish community feeling increasingly uneasy. He suggested that authorities should first focus on tackling problematic chants and messaging, but did not rule out the possibility of banning protests altogether in certain cases.
“I think it’s time to take a broader look at protests and their cumulative impact,” Starmer said, adding that the government is reviewing what additional measures might be necessary.
The comments come as the UK raised its terrorism threat level to “severe,” amid concerns that foreign actors may be contributing to rising tensions and violence. Counter-terrorism police have warned of an increased threat to Jewish and Israeli individuals and institutions, noting that global instability is having direct consequences within the UK. Photo by Number 10, Wikimedia commons.
