Starmer urges ban on some protests in antisemitism crackdown

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has called for a crackdown on antisemitism that could include banning certain pro-Palestine protests in the UK. Speaking after a stabbing attack on two Jewish men in Golders Green, London, he suggested that, similar to measures taken in France, there are circumstances where preventing some marches is justified. Starmer emphasized his commitment to defending a diverse and tolerant Britain and challenged protesters to reconsider their participation if they hear antisemitic chants such as “globalise the Intifada.” The heightened tensions come amid a rise in antisemitic incidents and a recent elevation of Britain’s terror threat level to “severe,” indicating an attack is considered highly likely within the next six months. This assessment follows a growing pattern of violence linked to both Islamist and far-right extremism. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has called for an additional 300 officers to address the surge in antisemitism and is exploring the possibility of using police powers to restrict two upcoming protests in London: a pro-Palestine march and a rally organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Starmer’s remarks follow his visit to Golders Green, where he faced heckling from protesters chanting antisemitic slogans. He acknowledged the cumulative impact of repeated protests on the Jewish community and stressed the need for a “whole of society response” to antisemitism. The prime minister urged those involved in protests to reflect on the harm caused and called on the public to recognize and confront antisemitism wherever it occurs. The government’s stance signals a tougher approach to balancing the right to protest with the need to protect communities from hate-driven violence and intimidation.