PM urges students not to join pro-Palestinian protests on 7 October

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has urged students to abstain from attending pro-Palestinian protests on the anniversary of the 7 October Hamas attack on Israel, citing a rise in antisemitism as a primary concern. He described the planned demonstrations as disrespectful, particularly for Jewish individuals who are mourning the loss associated with the date. Starmer's comments come after a deadly attack on a Manchester synagogue, which has led to increased security measures for Jewish communities across the UK. Students from multiple universities are organizing protests, prompting Universities UK to advise caution regarding the timing of such demonstrations. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson also requested that protesters reflect on the significance of the day, suggesting that there are numerous other opportunities to voice their concerns.

The Union of Jewish Students expressed alarm over the protests, arguing they glorify acts of violence against Jews. Many protesters, however, maintain that their demonstrations are necessary to highlight the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza. The situation reflects the deepening divide over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within UK society.