The Metropolitan Police recorded 218 antisemitic incidents between October 1 and October 18, a sharp rise from 15 during the same period the previous year. Additionally, Islamophobic incidents increased to 101 from 42 in the previous year.
These statistics were released ahead of a major pro-Palestinian demonstration in London. In response, the Metropolitan Police banned protesters from assembling outside the Israeli embassy and announced monitoring for support of Hamas or Hezbollah, both banned under UK terror laws.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan noted a 1,353% increase in antisemitic incidents and a 140% increase in Islamophobic incidents. So far, 21 people have been arrested.
DAC Adelekan imposed restrictions on the protest's route and barred protesters from assembling by the Israeli embassy. Counter-terrorism officers would be involved due to concerns about support for banned groups.
While supporting the Palestinian cause or criticizing Israel is not inherently unlawful, supporting proscribed organizations like Hamas or Hezbollah is. Wearing, carrying, or displaying symbols related to these organizations can lead to arrest, as can certain chants or slogans.
One specific slogan, "Palestine will be free, from the rivers to the sea," has raised questions about potential violations of race hate laws, but its use in a wider protest setting may not necessarily lead to arrest, as policing public order is often context-dependent.