London Thanasis Gavos

Enhanced powers and exclusion zones were announced by the Metropolitan Police as part of increased mobilization for the large pro-Palestine solidarity demonstration in London on Saturday afternoon.

The demonstration will be held amid backlash as it coincides with Armistice Day, the anniversary of the end of World War I.

There has been heightened concern over incidents described as “inflammatory” statements by Home Secretary Suella Braverman in charge of policing about a “hate march” by a “mob”.

After the statements of the intention of anti-gatherings, far-right groups have expressed.

As announced by Scotland Yard, the “significant” security operation will involve more than 2,000 police officers, with half coming from police departments outside London.

The Cenotaph outside Downing Street, the focus of the annual Remembrance Sunday service in memory of the fallen which takes place the following day, as well as other streets and monuments in Westminster will be covered by exclusion zones.

“Anyone believed to be participating in or associated with the Palestinian demonstration and attempting to enter this area will be subject to arrest,” the Metropolitan Police warned.

In particular, the Cenotaph will be protected with a 24-hour police presence.

Also, the police will have the freedom to stop and physically check anyone they deem suspicious in the wider area, while there will be the possibility of ordering the crowd to disperse.

The police have agreed with the organizers of the demonstration that the route to be followed will start from Hyde Park to the US embassy on the south bank of the Thames.