Thousands Rally in London for Palestine as Ceasefire Looms in Gaza

Thousands Rally in London in Support of Palestine

A large rally in support of Palestine drew thousands to central London on Saturday. The event was organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) and saw a heavy police presence due to concerns about potential disruption to nearby synagogues and the BBC.

The rally was originally planned as a march past the BBC and close to a synagogue, but police blocked these plans and imposed conditions on the protest, including a ban on entering a specific area around Portland Place. Seven people were arrested during the event, four on suspicion of public order offences, two for breaching protest conditions, and one for holding a placard suggesting support for banned organizations.

Despite the restrictions, thousands of people gathered in Whitehall, holding signs and chanting slogans in support of Palestine. Some protesters expressed frustration with the police presence and the restrictions imposed on the event.

The PSC described the police conditions as "repressive" and called for them to be lifted. They also criticized the Met Police for not taking action against pro-Palestine marches that they claim posed a threat to synagogues.

The rally comes as a ceasefire is set to come into effect in Gaza on Saturday. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Palestinians and dozens of Israelis.