Arabic version: ستارمر يقترح قيودًا على الاحتجاجات المؤيدة لفلسطين في المملكة المتحدة

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has indicated that certain pro-Palestine marches may face bans, particularly those involving the chant “globalise the Intifada.” In a recent BBC interview, Starmer emphasized the need for stricter controls on language used during these protests, suggesting that some rallies could be outright prohibited. According to Al Jazeera, he stated, “I’m a big defender of freedom of expression, peaceful protests,” but deemed some expressions as “completely off limits.”

Starmer’s remarks follow a series of anti-Semitic incidents in the UK, including a stabbing attack in Golders Green, a neighborhood with a significant Jewish population. The Prime Minister’s comments come as discussions with police regarding potential actions against specific protest slogans have been ongoing. He labeled the chant “globalise the Intifada” as a case of “extreme racism,” advocating for legal consequences for those who use it.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley supported Starmer’s stance, indicating that individuals using the controversial phrase might face arrest. Supporters of the slogan argue it aims to broaden the pro-Palestine movement into a global initiative.

Starmer’s position has drawn criticism, particularly from pro-Palestine activists who accuse the government of stifling free speech. This backlash has intensified following a recent increase in the UK’s security alert level to “severe,” influenced by the recent violence in Golders Green. Pro-Palestine demonstrations have seen significant police presence, with over 500 arrests made during a vigil opposing a ban on the activist group Palestine Action last month.