Police patrols have increased across London after videos emerged of what appears to be people celebrating the Hamas attack on Israel. Home Secretary Suella Braverman has said she expects the police to “use the full force of the law” against displays of support for Hamas. The Met said it would provide a visible presence to “reassure communities”. On Saturday, Palestinian militants launched a major assault into Israel from Gaza. Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, Ms Braverman said: “Whenever Israel is attacked, Islamists and other racists use Israeli defensive measures as a pretext to stir up hatred against British Jews.
“Yesterday I spoke with CST—UK [Community Security Trust] to ensure the Government is doing everything necessary for the protection of our Jewish communities. “There must be zero tolerance for antisemitism or glorification of terrorism on the streets of Britain.” British man missing in Israel after Hamas attack Immigration minister Robert Jenrick, has also urged the Met to increase patrols, claiming people were “glorifying the terrorist activities of Hamas”. People have shared videos on social media showing Palestinian flags being waved, beeping car horns and clapping. Mr Jenrick urged the police to “take this seriously”, adding that “there is no place for this in the UK”.
‘Provide balance’
In a statement, Scotland Yard said: “We are aware of a number of incidents, including those that have been shared on social media, in relation to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the border with Gaza. “The Met has increased policing patrols across parts of London in order to provide a visible presence and reassurance to our communities. “Anyone who experiences threatening behaviour or is worried about their safety is urged to contact police. “We will ensure that an appropriate policing plan is in place in order to balance the right to protest against any disruption to Londoners.”
