London bans Al Quds Day march, first ban since 2012

London sees its first protest ban of the Al Quds Day march since 2012 after the home secretary approved the police request. The Metropolitan Police had sought prohibition of the demonstration planned for Sunday, citing public order concerns and potential clashes.

The move has drawn condemnation from the Islamic Human Rights Commission, which organised the event, arguing that banning the march targets peaceful expression and undermines rights to protest.

Courts minister Sarah Sackman highlighted that hate has no place in society and supported measures to prevent demonstrations that could fuel hostility. The decision reflects a broader debate about balancing the right to protest with public safety and the protection of communities from hate.

With the event called off, organizers and supporters may pursue alternative peaceful activities, while critics caution that bans could have broader implications for civil liberties and how protests are managed in the capital.

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