Police urged to probe Hamas terror bandana at London protest
Appeal to authorities to investigate the wearer of pro-terror apparel seen at anti-Israel protest.
The Metropolitan Police has been asked to investigate a man seen wearing a Hamas bandana during a protest outside the Israeli embassy in London on Saturday.
Although no arrests were made during the rally to mark a year since the March of Return protests began at the Gaza border, officers were subsequently sent photos of the man in question.
They were also sent another photo showing a man who appeared to be flying the flag of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine.
It is a criminal offence under the Terrorism Act 2000 to “display an article, such as a flag, in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that they are a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation”.
A police spokesman said each case depends “on its own particular facts including any supporting evidence”.
He added: “We recognise that activity and behaviour like this can cause concerns within communities. We are committed to disrupting and dealing with any groups or individuals who aim to cause harm or spread fear and hatred, no matter what their ideological or political motive.”
Home Secretary Sajid Javid recently announced that the UK was now proscribing Hezbollah in its entirety, overturning longstanding Foreign and Commonwealth Office concerns that doing so could cut communication channels with a group that comprises part of the Lebanese government.
The full proscription now means that there is no legal loophole for anti-Israel activists to fly the flag of Hezbollah on the streets of the UK, something regularly seen during the annual Al-Quds Day march through central London.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
