The numbers
Hundreds gathered in central London on March 15, 2026, for the annual Al-Quds Day demonstration, which has become a focal point for expressing support for Palestinian rights. This year, the event was marked by heightened tensions as police made 12 arrests during the protest, which was confined to a limited area due to a new ban on the traditional march route.
More than 1,000 police officers were deployed across the area to maintain order, reflecting the authorities’ concerns about potential unrest. This demonstration was particularly significant as it marked the first time in over a decade that the march through the capital was banned. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood approved a month-long prohibition on marches, citing the need to prevent hate speech and violence.
Chants of “from the river to the sea” and “Israel is a terror state” echoed through the streets, drawing attention to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The event, which takes its name from the Arabic word for Jerusalem, was established by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini after Iran’s 1979 revolution, and has since been observed globally as a day of solidarity with Palestinians.
Police warned demonstrators that they would arrest anyone displaying placards, flags, or chanting messages that could be classified as hate crimes or support for proscribed organizations. Ade Adelekan, a police spokesperson, stated, “We made 12 arrests including for showing support for a proscribed organisation, affray and for threatening or abusive behaviour.” This reflects the authorities’ commitment to enforcing the law amid concerns about the potential for violence.
Despite the restrictions, some participants defended their right to protest. Fereydun Bahrami, a protester, remarked, “This is a love walk, how can it be a hate march?” This sentiment underscores the complex emotions surrounding the event, as many view it as a peaceful demonstration for justice rather than an expression of hatred.
The Metropolitan Police’s assistant commissioner noted that they were investigating chants made by a speaker at the protest, indicating that the scrutiny of the event extended beyond just the actions of the demonstrators. Both groups involved in the protest and counterprotest dispersed as planned at 3 PM, adhering to the conditions set by the police.
However, the restrictions and conditions imposed by the authorities led to a noticeable decrease in attendance, with many choosing to stay away from the protest or counterprotest. The event’s history spans over 40 years, with many participants having marched on Al-Quds Day for decades, making this year’s turnout particularly poignant amid the backdrop of legal constraints.
As the situation unfolds, observers are keenly watching how the authorities will respond to any further demonstrations and whether the legal measures will continue to shape the landscape of public protest in London. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term implications of this year’s event on future Al-Quds Day protests.
