Summary
The UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has advised students not to participate in pro-Palestinian protests on the anniversary of the 7 October Hamas attack on Israel. He warned against rising antisemitism and called protests on this date disrespectful. Security measures in the UK have increased following a recent attack on a synagogue in Manchester.
Key Facts
- Sir Keir Starmer is the UK Prime Minister and has asked students to avoid protests on the anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel, citing concerns about antisemitism.
- He described holding protests on this day as "un-British" and disrespectful, particularly towards Jewish communities.
- Security has been heightened in the UK to protect Jewish communities after a deadly attack on a synagogue in Manchester.
- Planned student protests are expected in major UK cities including London, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Bristol.
- Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and other politicians have expressed concern over protests possibly turning into "hate marches."
- Labour mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham has called for more government funding for police due to increased security pressures.
- On the anniversary date, nearly 500 people were arrested during protests in London.
- The Israeli military has been conducting operations in Gaza following the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023.
