The Palestine Solidarity Campaign is calling on the Metropolitan Police to lift their ban on a pro-Palestine demonstration scheduled for January 18 outside the BBC. Despite police concerns regarding disruption to a nearby synagogue, PSC has cited no documented threats from previous protests. Support has grown for the rally, with over 700 members of the Jewish community backing the right to demonstrate. Discussions with the police about the march are forthcoming.
LONDON: The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) and its coalition partners are urging the Metropolitan Police to reconsider their decision to ban a pro-Palestine demonstration set for Saturday outside the BBC headquarters. Following widespread backlash, the organizers announced a revised route and called upon supporters to gather in Whitehall at 12 p.m. on January 18, to peacefully march toward the BBC. Met spokesperson Chris Humphreys acknowledged awareness of the new route but expressed concerns that it would breach conditions imposed under the Public Order Act, citing disruptions to a nearby synagogue during Shabbat services. The PSC has rejected claims regarding threats to Jewish communities, stressing that there have been no documented incidents during previous marches, while also emphasizing the critical need for protest against ongoing violence in Gaza. Ben Jamal, the PSC’s director, maintained that the right to protest must not be hindered by police conditions. Support for the demonstration has gained traction, with over 700 members of the Jewish community signing a letter advocating for the right to demonstrate in solidarity with Palestine, including Holocaust survivors and their descendants. The PSC has reached out to authorities for further dialogue regarding the march.
The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has prompted numerous demonstrations worldwide, advocating for Palestinian rights and seeking an end to perceived injustices. The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) has been actively involved in organizing protests in the UK, highlighting their opposition to the actions of the Israeli government and the complicity of various institutions, including media outlets. The Metropolitan Police’s invocation of the Public Order Act to restrict protest routes reflects ongoing tensions between law enforcement and demonstrators, especially concerning the safety and disruption of local communities. Given the significance of this issue, support from various community segments, including Jewish individuals, has emerged, emphasizing the desire for peaceful protest against contributing factors to violence in the region.
The Metropolitan Police’s decision to ban the planned pro-Palestine demonstration has sparked significant dissent among organizers and supporters. With a revised route in place, the Palestine Solidarity Campaign remains determined to proceed with the protest while advocating for the right to peacefully assemble. Rising support from various community members highlights a shared commitment to combat ongoing violence in Gaza and the perceived suppression of free speech surrounding this critical issue. The PSC’s outreach to police further signals their intention to find a constructive resolution.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
