UK Police Target ‘Intifada’ Chants at Pro-Palestinian Rallies

By Staff, Agencies

Police in London and Manchester announced Wednesday that anyone chanting or displaying ‘intifada’ slogans at pro-Palestinian protests may now be subject to arrest.

The new measure came amid heightened security concerns following the deadly antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney on Sunday, which left 15 people dead during "Hanukkah" celebrations.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley and Manchester Chief Constable Stephen Watson said in a joint statement that phrases such as “Globalize the Intifada” are now considered actionable.

“The context has shifted. Words carry weight and consequences,” the statement read, emphasizing the authorities’ determination to act decisively.

The move followed a series of violent incidents targeting Jewish communities, including the October attack on a Manchester synagogue during "Yom Kippur", which killed two worshippers. Since then, UK police have increased security around synagogues, Jewish schools, and community centers, a response intensified after the Sydney tragedy.

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis welcomed the policy, calling the slogans “illegal” and urging clearer rules on public demonstrations.

Previously, phrases like “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” were not prosecutable under British law. Authorities now cite a “growing threat” and say policing tactics must be adjusted accordingly.

Meanwhile, in Sydney, the Jewish community paid tribute to Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a UK-born leader and the first victim of the Bondi Beach attack to be buried.