Thousands rallied outside the US Embassy in London on Saturday, demanding an end to US and Israeli military actions in Iran. The protest was organized by various groups, including the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, Stop The War Coalition, and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign. Demonstrators gathered on Millbank, near Westminster, before marching to the embassy.
Protest Highlights
- Protesters displayed Iranian and Palestinian flags.
- Many carried portraits of Iran’s former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei.
- Placards featured messages such as “Stop Trump’s Wars” and “No War on Iran.”
Zarah Sultana, a local MP, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the need to heed the lessons of past conflicts. She drew parallels with the 2003 Iraq invasion, expressing concerns over the justifications for war and the impact on innocent lives.
Voices of Dissent
A statement from former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who could not attend, was read aloud. He voiced opposition to another potential illegal war, highlighting the UK’s complicity in US-led interventions. Corbyn urged a shift towards a foreign policy that prioritizes cooperation and equality.
Protest Attendance and Police Response
Estimates suggest between 5,000 and 6,000 protesters participated in the demonstration. The Metropolitan Police reported several arrests, including incidents related to inciting racial hatred and possession of an offensive weapon.
- One woman in her 60s was arrested for inciting racial hatred.
- Two others were arrested for racially aggravated public order offences.
- A man in his 30s faces charges related to violent disorder.
Prior to the event, the Metropolitan Police increased patrols and enforced guidelines regarding the protest route and timing. Additionally, some individuals with Israeli flags were observed nearby, resulting in confrontations with protesters who chanted slogans such as: “Stop the bombing now!”
Personal Accounts
Among the participants was Daniela Costa, a Brazilian student living in London. She expressed solidarity for Iran and Palestine, stating the protest aimed to demonstrate public opposition to UK involvement in the conflict.
Another attendee, Martin Perry from Northampton, voiced concerns about the legality of military actions against Iran. He insisted that the public does not support further military engagement and urged political leaders to reconsider their stances.
The rally concluded with organizers announcing plans for a future demonstration against far-right extremism in central London, scheduled for March 28.
