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Major London protests expected against Yemen, Gaza attacks

Massive protests expected in London against UK's role in Yemen, Gaza attacks
MENA
2 min read
13 January, 2024
London expects large-scale demonstrations this Saturday, protesting the UK's involvement in US-led airstrikes in Yemen and demanding ceasefire in Gaza.
Police presence is expected to increase for the Saturday protest [Getty]

London is bracing for major protests this Saturday, with expectations of hundreds of thousands of demonstrators gathering in response to the UK's involvement in US-led airstrikes against Yemen.

The Palestine Solidarity Campaign, the main organiser of the protests, has called on participants to gather at Bank Junction on Saturday at 12:00 PM (GMT).

The march is part of a global day of action, involving 30 countries, and calls for a ceasefire in Gaza after at least 23,000 people have been killed. Protests have been taking place in London on most weekends since the start of the 7 October war on Gaza.

The air strikes on Yemen come in response to Houthi rebel attacks on Red Sea shipping, which the Houthis say were aimed at pressuring Israel to end its war on Gaza.

The US and the UK say that their military response is to "help protect" shipping in the Red Sea.

Police presence is expected to increase for the Saturday protest, with 1,700 officers on duty, including forces from outside London.

The Metropolitan Police have announced several conditions, including adherence to the specified route, concluding the event by 5:00 PM GMT, and prohibiting entry into the area surrounding the Israeli embassy.

The UK’s position as a major supporter and participant in the attacks on both Gaza and Yemen has enraged many of its citizens.

Parliament voted against a ceasefire in Gaza on 15 November. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s spokesperson reportedly said on Friday that the PM will not submit the government's decision to attack Yemen to a parliamentary vote, stating he was under "no obligation" to do so.