LONDON: Pro-Palestinian marches continued across the UK as organizers hit back at Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s claim that the demonstrations have been infiltrated by extremists.
Following George Galloway’s unexpected victory in the Rochdale by-election, Sunak appealed for unity against what he termed “extremists,” urging law enforcement to intervene against any indication of support for terrorist organizations during protests.
Galloway, a polarizing figure whose campaign centered on the Gaza conflict, rebuked the Prime Minister’s remarks, labeling them “despicable” and warning against alienating young Muslims.
Further local protests are planned before a national march, organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, which is set to take place in central London on March 9.
Pro-Palestinian Marches in UK
Many demonstrations this weekend are aimed at Barclays Bank, with the Palestine Solidarity Campaign alleging the institution maintains significant financial ties with arms companies supplying weapons to Israel.
Responding to Sunak’s address, Ben Jamal, director of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, criticized the Prime Minister’s stance, suggesting he should address politicians and commentators who support states under investigation for genocide and mass slaughter, rather than those protesting against such actions.
Sunak, addressing concerns about the security situation for MPs amidst tensions stemming from the Middle East conflict, emphasized the need for robust policing of protests and pledged government support for law enforcement actions.
However, critics argue that Sunak’s rhetoric risks marginalizing the UK’s Muslim population and undermining democratic rights. Galloway accused the government of attempting to equate peaceful protests with violence and intimidation, warning against driving people towards extremism.
