Thousands of Hamas supporters cheer ‘From the river to the sea’ in front of Israeli embassy

Thousands of Hamas supporters, many in jubilant mood, were allowed to gather in vast numbers in the centre of London on Monday, cheering ‘From the river to the sea’ in front of the Israeli embassy.

At the event, organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, Israel was branded an ‘apartheid murderous regime’.

Placards included ‘For a socialist intifada’, the slogan coined by the Socialist Party. There were also banners held by ‘the International Jewish anti-Zionist network’, ‘Jewish Voice for Labour’ and ‘Jewish Network for Palestine’.

One speaker told the crowd: “As this situation inevitably escalates a coalition of anti-racist and anti-war groups will be leading public demonstrations of solidarity with the people of Palestine. We do this because of our dedication to the application of international law. And for the basic principle of human rights and dignity.

“We want to see an end to all violence particularly that which targets civilians whilst recognising it won’t be achieved until 75 years of violence towards the Palestinian people is adequately addressed. Our grievance is with the actions of the Israeli state and those governments that are complicit with them.”

Jewish News is consulting with the police to clarify if any of the participants were arrested for supporting a proscribed terrorist group.