Police to use Thames to separate protesters at Al Quds protest

Police Deploy Thames as Dividing Line at Al Quds Rally

London’s police force has opted to deploy the River Thames as a dividing line between demonstrators and counter-protesters during the Al Quds Day rally in central London on Sunday.

Banned March Sparks Controversy

A planned demonstration heading to the Home Office was suspended earlier this week following approval from Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood for the Metropolitan Police to intercept it, citing concerns about “preventing serious public disorder.”

“The organizers, the Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC), have been labeled as ‘supportive of the Iranian regime,’ which led to the decision to halt the march,” the Met stated.

First Ban in 14 Years

This marks the first time the Met has barred a protest march in 14 years. Despite the ban, the IHRC has confirmed a “static” gathering will proceed, describing it as a peaceful, pro-Palestinian event.

Logistical Measures in Place

Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan announced that the Thames will serve as a buffer, marking a “new bespoke tactic” for managing the “unique set of circumstances” of the Al Quds rally. The Met anticipates at least 6,000 protesters on Albert Embankment and an additional 6,000 counter-protesters near Millbank.

Lambeth and Vauxhall Bridges will be closed to all vehicles except emergency services. Over 1,000 officers, including community patrols and support from other forces, will oversee the event. Enhanced monitoring is also planned for areas with significant Jewish populations.

“Officers will be instructed to act swiftly, particularly regarding placards, flags, and chants,” Adelekan added.

Zero Tolerance for Hate Crimes

The Met has pledged a “zero tolerance approach” to hate-related incidents, with arrests possible for anyone advocating proscribed groups. While the measures do not eliminate disorder risks, Adelekan claimed they simplify the task of managing the protest.

The ban was based on historical context, community tensions, and an “intelligence gap,” as highlighted by the Met’s reasoning. Al Quds Day, initiated after the 1979 Iranian Revolution, typically occurs on the final Friday of Ramadan and is celebrated globally as a pro-Palestinian demonstration.