The British government has announced plans to grant police expanded powers to control recurring protests, particularly those related to Gaza and the Israel–Palestine conflict, amid rising public unrest across major cities.
The announcement came after around 500 people were arrested in London during a large pro-Palestinian demonstration, where participants were accused of supporting the banned organization Palestine Action.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated that she is reviewing all existing anti-protest laws and intends to fast-track amendments to the Public Order Act 1986, giving law enforcement greater authority to assess the cumulative impact of repeated protests and instruct organizers to change their protest location if necessary.
“I believe there is a gap in the law that requires urgent attention,” Mahmood said. “We must ensure that police have the necessary tools to maintain public order and protect communities from escalating tensions.”
Under the proposed powers, if weekly demonstrations at the same site continue to trigger disturbances or violence, police will be able to relocate or restrict those gatherings. Individuals failing to comply could face arrest.
The move follows a surge in racial and religious tensions after a recent attack on a Manchester synagogue, prompting the Home Secretary to visit the affected community.
While the government insists the measures are meant to safeguard public safety, critics and human rights groups warn that the new legislation could further erode civil liberties and limit freedom of expression, particularly for pro-Palestinian activists.
Analysts note that the decision reflects a growing political polarization in Britain over the Gaza conflict, as the government faces pressure to balance security concerns with democratic freedoms.
