Metropolitan Police Summons Actor Khalid Abdalla for Interview Over Pro-Palestine Protest

Abdalla, recognized for his role in 'The Crown,' is called for questioning regarding a protest held in January amid ongoing tensions in Gaza.

Khalid Abdalla, an actor known for his portrayal of Dodi Fayed in the Netflix series 'The Crown,' has announced that the Metropolitan Police of London has summoned him for a formal interview related to his participation in a pro-Palestine protest held on January 18, 2023. Abdalla communicated this development via social media, stating he received a letter from the police regarding the Palestine Solidarity Campaign event.

He noted that it is currently uncertain whether the investigation will lead to any charges.

In his social media post, Abdalla emphasized the significance of the right to protest, claiming it is under threat in the United Kingdom.

He expressed concerns over what he described as rising attempts to silence voices advocating for Palestine amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

The Palestine Coalition publicly condemned the Metropolitan Police's decision to send letters to various activists, alleging that the recipients had violated conditions set by the police regarding protest activities related to the conflict in Gaza.

As of the latest reports, several prominent figures, including Chris Nineham, the chief steward of the protest, and Ben Jamal, the director of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, have been charged with offenses connected to the same demonstration.

The police noted that dozens of participants were arrested on January 18 on suspicion of breaching protest conditions, particularly one that restricted access to a designated area around Portland Place.

This protest attracted thousands of demonstrators opposing Israel's military actions in Gaza, coinciding with a ceasefire agreement reached with Hamas shortly before the event.

Abdalla took to the stage during the rally, where he addressed attendees about the ceasefire, referring to the ongoing conflict's toll and expressing hope for a reduction in violence.

His remarks included recognition of the humanitarian implications of the ceasefire and the broader crisis in Gaza.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police indicated that the investigation into alleged violations of the Public Order Act continues and confirmed that additional individuals have been invited to interviews concerning the protest.

However, the police have refrained from disclosing the identities of those under investigation.