**Protesters Arrested for Disrupting Film Production in London**
In a recent incident, five protesters were arrested by the Metropolitan Police in central London after allegedly disrupting the filming of Gal Gadot’s new movie. The police claimed that the protests were targeted solely because the actress involved in the production was Israeli.
The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic & Cultural Boycott of Israel has been vocal about boycotting Gadot’s films, citing her support for Israel’s military campaigns in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. However, this is not the first time that the actress’s film productions have been disrupted by protesters in London.
**Background on Gal Gadot**
Gal Gadot, 40, is an Israeli actress who has vocally supported her country. She served two years in the Israel Defense Force, which is mandatory for most citizens of Israel starting at age 18. Her current project, The Runner, is an action thriller that she is believed to be filming.
**Police Action**
Scotland Yard deployed police officers to a filming site in Westminster on Wednesday to identify suspects wanted for offenses committed during earlier protests and to deal with new crimes. Five people were arrested for harassment and offenses related to Section 241 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations Act, which deals with illegally obstructing access to a workplace.
Two arrests were related to incidents from previous protests, while three arrests were related to alleged offenses that occurred on Wednesday. The police stated that they acknowledge the importance of peaceful protests but have an obligation to intervene when they cross the line into serious disrupting or criminality.
**Police Statement**
Superintendent Neil Holyoak emphasized that the police will not tolerate harassment or unlawful interference against those who are trying to do their legitimate professional work in London. He added that discussions were held with the production firm to understand the impact on their work and any individuals involved.
**Conclusion**
The incident highlights the tensions between free speech and respecting the rights of others, particularly in a city like London where diverse perspectives and opinions coexist. The police’s actions demonstrate their commitment to maintaining public order while allowing peaceful protests to take place. As the debate surrounding Israel-Palestine continues to unfold, incidents like these will likely become more frequent.
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