(LONDON, February 10, 2024) — Police arrested several individuals Saturday as pro-Palestine and counter-protests, including a rally by the political party Ukip, converged in central London, according to reports from the London Evening Standard, The Guardian, Sky News, and The Times of Israel.
Demonstrations in London led to multiple arrests amid heightened tensions surrounding the conflict in Gaza.
- Campaigner Peter Tatchell was arrested for holding a placard reading “globalise the intifada.”
- Police are bracing for further demonstrations in the capital.
- The protests occurred as rallies for both pro-Palestine causes and by the Ukip party took place.
British activist Peter Tatchell was arrested Saturday for carrying a sign reading “globalise the intifada” during a pro-Palestine demonstration, The Guardian and Sky News reported. Police stated that several people were arrested at the protest, which was held in support of Palestine Action, according to The Times of Israel.
What is ‘Globalise the Intifada’?
The phrase “globalise the intifada” refers to a call to extend the Palestinian uprising, or intifada, beyond the borders of Israel and Palestine, according to a report by Middle East Eye. The first intifada began in 1987 and the second in 2000. The phrase has been used by activists to express solidarity with Palestinians and to call for international action to end the Israeli occupation.
Arrests and Police Response
Tatchell’s arrest sparked debate over freedom of speech and the right to protest, with supporters arguing that his sign was a legitimate expression of political opinion. Police have not yet released the total number of arrests made during the demonstrations, but confirmed that multiple individuals were taken into custody, The Times of Israel reported.
“Globalise the intifada” is a slogan that aims to broaden the scope of Palestinian resistance and advocacy to a global level, according to Middle East Eye.
The protests took place against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in Gaza and increasing international concern over the humanitarian situation there. The London Evening Standard reported that police were bracing for a busy day as both pro-Palestine rallies and a demonstration by the Ukip party were scheduled to take place in the capital.
Time.news based this report in part on reporting by the London Evening Standard, The Guardian, Sky News, The Times of Israel, and Middle East Eye and added independent analysis and context.
