Starmer signals possible ban on some pro-Palestine marches
UK PM Keir Starmer signals possible bans on some pro-Palestine marches, citing concerns over slogans and public safety amid ongoing debate on protest limits.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that banning certain pro-Palestine marches in Britain could be justified, particularly when specific slogans are used.
In an interview broadcast Saturday, Starmer said restrictions may be necessary in cases where protests include chants such as “globalise the intifada.” While reaffirming support for the right to protest, he indicated that limits may apply under certain conditions.
“I’m a big defender of freedom of expression, peaceful protests,” Starmer said. “But when there are chants like ‘globalise the intifada’, that’s completely off limits.”
Debate over slogans and limits of expression
The prime minister emphasized that future measures could focus on regulating language used during demonstrations, suggesting a more assertive policing approach.
The term “intifada” translates to shaking off, and is a reference to two historical Palestinian uprisings against “Israel”, particularly during 1987–1993 and the early 2000s. British authorities have increasingly scrutinized its use in public demonstrations, with some officials arguing that certain interpretations may pose risks to public order.
