Police patrols have been increased in London following reports that people have been celebrating Hamas’ attack against Israel.
The Metropolitan Police said it had been made aware of a number of incidents in the capital in connection with the Israel-Gaza conflict, while a number of protests have been planned for the coming days.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan told the BBC on Sunday, increased violence or tension in the Middle East “can lead to increased hate crime in London”.
Scotland Yard said on Sunday it will take a “zero tolerance” approach to any activity that “crosses the lines into criminality”.
It comes after Countdown presenter Rachel Riley warned it was a “dangerous and terrifying time” for Jewish people after witnessing people flying Palestinian flags in west London.
Acton, half an hour ago.
— Rachel Riley MBE 💙 (@RachelRileyRR) October 7, 2023
Popped into a cafe for some baklava with the kids and our Ukrainian friends.
People have been brutally murdered, kidnapped and there are people in London dancing.
Just had a reassuring call with the police, if anyone is scared, please call them. https://t.co/fYjXn4zEDF pic.twitter.com/dQjcAsRyDS
Ms Riley said she had seen people dancing and “seemingly celebrating like they were having a party”.
On Saturday night, a 50-strong group waving Palestinian flags could be seen cheering and sending fireworks into the sky on Edgware Road in London.
Writing on social media, Ms Riley said: "I just passed two cars in west London driving with Palestinian flags flying from each window, bouncing up and down in their cars, seemingly celebrating like they were having a party.
“Make no mistake, this is a dangerous and terrifying time for all Jews around the world.”
She added: “People have been brutally murdered, kidnapped and there are people in London dancing.
“Most people understand this is an abomination. No one should cheer war and death.”
On Sunday, Home Secretary Suella Braverman has said she expects the police to “use the full force of the law” in response.
She posted on social media: “Whenever Israel is attacked, Islamists and other racists use Israeli defensive measures as a pretext to stir up hatred against British Jews.
“Yesterday I spoke with CST-UK to ensure the Government is doing everything necessary for the protection of our Jewish communities.
“There must be zero tolerance for antisemitism or glorification of terrorism on the streets of Britain.
“I expect the police to use the full force of the law against displays of support for Hamas, other proscribed terrorist groups or attempts to intimidate British Jews.”
Immigration minister Robert Jenrick shared her post, adding: “These disgusting people are glorifying the terrorist activities of Hamas, a proscribed organisation.
“There is no place for this in the UK. I trust @metpoliceuk will be taking this seriously.”
A Scotland Yard spokesperson said: “We are aware of a number of incidents, including those that have been shared on social media, in relation to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the border with Gaza.
“The Met has increased policing patrols across parts of London in order to provide a visible presence and reassurance to our communities.
“We remain in contact with partners and community leaders to listen to any concerns.
“Anyone who experiences threatening behaviour or is worried about their safety is urged to contact police.”
In a statement on Sunday evening, the Met’s Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine added: “We are aware that this conflict has a far reaching impact on communities around the world, and we extend our full support to those affected in London.
“We are listening and working with communities and partners to ensure people feel safe and protected. We ask that members of the public report anything concerning, such as threatening behaviour.
“We are aware that a number of demonstrations and protests are planned. We have spoken to the organisers and we expect these will pass off peacefully. However, we will take a zero tolerance approach to any activity which crosses the lines into criminality.”
There are a number of protests being planned, including a Stop The War protest due to be held in central London on Monday. A group called the Palestine Solidarity Campaign has also called for people to attend an “emergency” demonstration on Monday outside the Israeli Embassy.
“While officers will be there primarily to ensure protests pass off peacefully, we will make arrests if it is suspected that a criminal offence has been committed,” a Met spokesperson added.
As well as increased patrols, the Met has spoken to synagogues, mosques, and businesses to provide them with safety advice.
