UK PM Keir Starmer signals tougher stance on pro-Palestinian marches

LONDON (Web Desk): British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said that banning certain pro-Palestinian demonstrations could be justified, particularly where slogans such as calls to “globalise the intifada” are used, as tensions rise following recent antisemitic incidents in the United Kingdom.

In an interview broadcast on Saturday, Starmer said he remained a strong supporter of freedom of expression and peaceful protest, but stressed that some chants crossed a “completely off limits” line and could warrant stricter action, including the possibility of restricting or stopping certain marches.

His remarks come amid growing political pressure following a series of antisemitic incidents, including a recent stabbing attack in Golders Green in north London, an area with a significant Jewish population. Two men were injured in the incident, and a 45-year-old British national of Somali origin has been remanded in custody on charges of attempted murder.

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Starmer visited the site of the attack and a Jewish volunteer ambulance service earlier this week, where he was reportedly heckled by some members of the public who accused the government of failing to ensure their safety.

The prime minister noted that many in the Jewish community had expressed concern over the repeated nature of pro-Palestinian protests since the Gaza conflict escalated following Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. He said the phrase “globalise the intifada” was seen as deeply threatening by many Jewish citizens in the UK.

Authorities in London and Manchester had previously warned that chanting such slogans could lead to arrests. Police have also indicated they will closely assess permissions for future protests.

The UK government recently raised its national threat level to “severe,” citing increased risks linked to extremist ideologies and recent violent incidents.