Ban on Al Quds Day March
“The decision to ban it this year is purely based on a risk assessment of this specific protest and counter-protests – we do not police taste or decency or prefer one political view over another, but we will do everything we can to reduce violence and disorder,” stated Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan of the Metropolitan Police. This announcement comes as the police prepare to enforce a ban on the Al Quds Day march scheduled for March 11, 2026, in London.
The Home Secretary has approved the Metropolitan Police’s request to prohibit the march, marking the first time a protest of this nature has been banned since 2012. The decision is rooted in concerns over potential serious public disorder, especially given the history of previous Al Quds marches, which have led to arrests for supporting terrorist organizations and antisemitic hate crimes.
The Al Quds Day march, organized by the Islamic Human Rights Commission, has been a focal point of political tension in London, particularly due to its support for the Iranian regime. Over the past 40 years, the march has taken place peacefully, but recent events have raised alarms. In the last year alone, 20 Iranian state-backed attacks have been foiled in the UK, further complicating the landscape for public demonstrations.
In response to the ban, Labour MP Shabana Mahmood remarked, “I expect to see the full force of the law applied to anyone spreading hatred and division instead of exercising their right to peaceful protest.” This statement underscores the delicate balance between the right to protest and the need for public safety.
The ban will be effective from 16:00 hours on March 11 and will remain in place for one month. During this period, the police will impose strict conditions on any static assembly that may occur, aiming to mitigate the risks associated with the protest and any potential counter-protests.
The background of the Al Quds march is significant, as it originated in Iran and has been a point of contention in London due to its political implications. The decision to ban the march follows calls from both Labour and Conservative MPs, reflecting a bipartisan concern over the potential for unrest.
As the situation unfolds, the police and local authorities will be closely monitoring any developments related to the march. The decision to ban the Al Quds Day march highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in balancing civil liberties with public safety in a politically charged environment.