**UK’s Top Cop Speaks Out Against Planned Palestine Action Protest**
The head of the Metropolitan Police, the UK’s capital city’s top law enforcement agency, has expressed shock and disappointment over a planned protest in support of Palestine Action. The demonstration is scheduled to take place on January 26, just as the Home Secretary is preparing to present a statement to Parliament that could effectively brand the group a terror organization.
Metropolitan Police Chief Jacqueline Howard said that the Met has the authority to impose conditions on the protest to prevent disorder, destruction, and serious disruption in the community. This move comes after Palestine Action members were involved in a break-in at RAF Brize Norton, leading to a security review being launched.
**A Threat to British Democracy?**
The Palestine Action group has responded strongly to the proposed ban, calling it “absurd” and claiming that it is an attack on the very foundations of British democracy. In a social media post, they said that the move would “rip away the basics of British rule of law,” adding: “It’s something everyone should fear.”
**Regular Protests Over Gaza War**
The planned protest in London is just one of many held since Israel launched its military campaign against Hamas in response to cross-border attacks. The conflict has resulted in devastating losses, with over 55,000 people killed and more than 15,000 children among the dead.
Amnesty International UK has spoken out against the use of counter-terrorism powers to target protests related to the Gaza war. The international human rights organization is concerned that such measures could be used to suppress legitimate dissent and silence those who speak out against government actions.
**Counter-Terrorism Police Investigate RAF Base Break-In**
The investigation into the break-in at RAF Brize Norton, which houses aircraft used for military operations, is being led by counter-terrorism police. The incident has been widely condemned by politicians, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who called it “disgraceful.”
Read More @ www.bbc.com
