Starmer Appeals to Students Amidst Concerns Over Pro-Palestinian Demonstrations
LONDON – Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer has cautioned students against participating in planned pro-Palestinian protests scheduled for Tuesday, following a weekend that saw nearly 500 arrests during similar demonstrations in central London. The appeal comes in the wake of heightened tensions spurred by the ongoing conflict in Gaza and a recent synagogue attack, prompting calls for restraint from both government officials and law enforcement.
The Prime Minister’s intervention underscores growing anxieties about potential disruptions and escalating unrest as demonstrations continue. while Starmer’s government formally recognized Palestinian statehood last month-a move reflecting international pressure to resolve the conflict-he is now prioritizing public safety and urging students to avoid involvement in protests that could be exploited or lead to further incidents. The situation is particularly sensitive given the backdrop of the October 7th hamas attack on Israel, which triggered the current military campaign in Gaza.
On Saturday,Metropolitan Police reported arresting 497 individuals during protests supporting Palestine Action,a proscribed group. Thes demonstrations proceeded despite explicit requests from ministers and police to postpone them considering the synagogue attack.
The conflict began after Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on october 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and the abduction of 251 hostages.Since then, the hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports 67,139 Palestinians have been killed consequently of Israeli military operations.
