Police gather at the Cenotaph in central London following an Armistice Day remembrance service on Saturday. Jeff Moore/AP
In London, a substantial gathering of counter-protesters clashed with police while attempting to confront a sizable pro-Palestinian rally on Saturday. The Metropolitan Police faced aggression from the counter-protestors, prompting a robust response with over 2,000 officers deployed to maintain order.
Amid the heightened tensions, far-right demonstrators disrupted the customary two-minute silence observed for Armistice Day at the Cenotaph monument in central London. Led by far-right organizer Tommy Robinson, a group sought to breach the war memorial, which had been designated an exclusion zone for protection.
During the traditional moment of silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, clashes ensued as far-right protestors, dressed in black, confronted police lines around Whitehall. The situation reflects a broader political dispute stemming from pro-Palestinian protests earlier in the week.
Britain’s Home Secretary Suella Braverman criticized the police for perceived leniency toward the pro-Palestinian demonstrators. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak initially attempted to prevent the pro-Palestinian march, expressing concerns about its timing. Although acknowledging the march would proceed, Sunak maintained that protesting on this specific weekend is not only disrespectful but also conflicts with the gratitude owed to those who sacrificed for freedom and peace.
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