London witnessed a sizeable gathering of pro-Palestinian demonstrators today, as hundreds of protesters assembled outside the BBC’s Broadcasting House in Portland Place. The gathering preceded a planned pro-Palestinian march, with participants waving Palestine flags and brandishing supportive placards. The Metropolitan Police, along with community support officers, were present to monitor the event.

Prior to the march, the Metropolitan Police issued a warning, cautioning that individuals expressing support for Hamas or deviating from the planned route could face arrest. This caution was underscored by a visible police presence around the demonstration.

The atmosphere turned tense as a cordon was established outside the main entrance to the BBC building, a response to an incident where red paint was thrown at the entrance in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The demonstration unfolded amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza. Palestinians in northern Gaza found themselves in a mass exodus after Israel’s military issued an evacuation order for approximately 1 million people to move to the southern part of the besieged territory. The order is part of Israel’s preparations for a wider land offensive against Gaza’s Hamas rulers following recent hostilities.