Police arrest 43 people as thousands join rival London protests

WorldPolitics
17 May 2026 • 2:59 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Police arrest 43 people as thousands join rival London protests

  • Tens of thousands gathered in London for two major demonstrations: Tommy Robinson’s 'Unite the Kingdom' march and a pro-Palestine Nakba Day rally.
  • The Metropolitan Police mounted a £4.5 million security operation, deploying over 4,000 officers to prevent clashes between the rival groups.
  • Despite the large crowds and significant police presence, the protests largely proceeded without major incident, though 43 people were arrested for various offences.
  • Speakers at the Tommy Robinson march, including Robinson himself, called for political engagement and criticised current leadership, with many attendees wearing 'Make England Great Again' hats.
  • At the pro-Palestine rally, MP Diane Abbott and former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn addressed demonstrators, with Corbyn advocating for a change in policy rather than just personalities.

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