Thousands of protesters to descend on London this weekend as police plan 'zero-tolerance approach'

The Metropolitan Police will deploy 4,000 officers across Central London this weekend as thousands of protesters descend on the capital.

Senior commanders have described the operation as unprecedented in recent years, claiming they will take "a zero-tolerance approach".

Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman announced the force would adopt "the most assertive possible use of our powers" when policing two major demonstrations expected to bring up to 80,000 people onto the capital's streets.

A Nakba Day march is anticipated to attract around 30,000 participants, whilst a Unite the Kingdom demonstration could see 50,000 Britons attend.

Both events take place amid what the senior officer described as serious international tensions and a severe terror threat level.

Those participating in the Nakba day demonstration will assemble at Exhibition Road before proceeding via Waterloo Road towards Piccadilly and Pall Mall.

The Unite the Kingdom protest faces tighter restrictions on their movement, with organisers restricted to the Whitehall and Parliament Square vicinity.

DAC Harman emphasised both groups must strictly adhere to their designated paths, while observing the agreed start and finish times.

He warned: "We may impose further restrictions if required."

The senior officer made clear any proposed alterations increasing the likelihood of confrontations between the two groups would be rejected.

Officers on horseback, dog units and specialist public order teams will patrol the demonstration routes, with armoured vehicles standing ready should violence erupt.

Live facial recognition technology will also be deployed throughout the operation.

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Specific antisemitic chants and slogans have been prohibited, including "Globalise the Intifada" and "Death to the IDF".

DAC Harman said: "The public expects our officers to act any time we see antisemitism, or anti-Muslim hatred."

The force has received intelligence indicating a potential threat to public safety from individuals planning to attend the events, prompting extensive security preparations.

DAC Harman acknowledged whilst many protesters arrive with peaceful intentions, others do not, noting regular arrests at previous events.

Of the 33 recent Palestinian demonstrations, 21 had their routes modified after organisers initially sought to begin or end near synagogues, something the senior officer described as understandably "very concerning for Jewish people".

The FA Cup final presents additional complications, with officers preparing for the possibility Manchester City or Chelsea supporters may attempt to join the Unite the Kingdom demonstrations.

DAC Harman said: "This has the potential to be a very busy day in policing. We will police without fear or favour. We will deal robustly with anyone intending to cause disruption."

Labour has banned seven right-wing commentators from setting foot in Britain ahead of the Unite the Kingdom rally on Saturday.

Around 150,000 protesters attended the protest in London in 2025.

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