Al-Quds Day March Banned in London Amidst Public Disorder Concerns

London’s annual Al-Quds Day march was banned by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood on Sunday, March 15, 2026, following a request from the Metropolitan Police. The ban, the first of its kind since 2012, was enacted due to concerns over potential “serious public disorder” in the context of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East The Guardian.

Background of Al-Quds Day

Al-Quds Day, also known as Jerusalem Day, is an annual event initiated by Iran’s Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in support of Palestine The Independent. The march has drawn criticism due to its perceived backing of the Iranian regime and, in past years, the presence of symbols associated with proscribed organizations like Hezbollah The Guardian.

Government and Police Justification for the Ban

Shabana Mahmood approved the ban, stating it was necessary to prevent public disorder given the “scale of the protest and multiple counterprotests” and “heightened tensions” stemming from the Middle East conflict The Guardian. The Metropolitan Police had requested the ban, citing concerns about the potential for clashes between demonstrators and counter-protesters Financial Times. The ban is in effect for one month, ending on April 11, 2026.

The Static Demonstration and Arrests

Despite the ban on a march, a static demonstration was permitted. Approximately 1,000 police officers were deployed to separate demonstrators and counter-protesters along the River Thames The Guardian. Police reported 12 arrests for offenses including supporting a proscribed organization, affray, and threatening behavior The Guardian. Investigations are underway regarding chants made during the protest.

Protester and Counter-Protester Activities

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators on the south side of the river displayed flags and placards with slogans such as “Stop Israeli war crimes” The Guardian. Some protesters were observed chanting “Death to the IDF,” a chant previously investigated after occurring at the Glastonbury music festival The Guardian. On the opposite side of the river, counter-demonstrators waved US and Israeli flags, as well as the historical Lion and Sun flag of Iran, expressing support for the exiled son of Iran’s last shah, Reza Pahlavi The Guardian.

Reactions to the Ban

The Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC), the organization responsible for organizing the march, condemned the ban as “politically charged” The Guardian. The IHRC maintains the event is an international demonstration in support of Palestinians and oppressed people worldwide.