• Tens of thousands march in London for separate far-right and pro-Palestine demonstrations.
• Police deploy 4,000 officers in what is described as the largest public order operation in years.
• Participants include supporters of Tommy Robinson and pro-Palestinian activists commemorating Nakba Day.
• UK government blocks 11 figures from entering the country to address the far-right rally.
• Concerns over hate speech and public safety are highlighted by authorities amidst rising tensions.

Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered in London for two concurrent protests, one organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson and the other supporting pro-Palestinian efforts, marking Nakba Day. Police deployed a massive force of 4,000 officers alongside various resources including drones and helicopters to manage what they called their largest public order operation in years, incurring significant operational costs estimated at £4.5 million (approximately $6 million) according to Al Jazeera, Reuters, and Le Monde.

By midday GMT, police reported at least 11 arrests made during the demonstrations, with initial estimates predicting a turnout of around 80,000 participants. Amid a backdrop of rising concerns surrounding immigration and specific socio-political issues, Robinson, who has a track record of past convictions, was reported to have instigated a movement amidst fears over high immigration rates to the UK, rallying supporters under slogans of “national unity” and “Christian values,” as noted by Al Jazeera, Reuters, and Le Monde.

The Metropolitan Police established clear operational protocols due to concerns about potential hate speech during both gatherings, emphasizing that they would implement a "zero-tolerance" policy for any disorderly conduct. They also imposed conditions on the organizers regarding the permitted speeches and messages communicated, aiming to prevent any escalation of tensions, as reported by Al Jazeera, Reuters, and Le Monde.

In light of these tensions, Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the public and warned against any individuals aiming to provoke violence or unrest, asserting the government's intent to act decisively against hate-related crimes brought forth during the events. He specifically labeled Robinson’s gathering as an event promoting “hatred and division,” drawing attention to incidents of antisemitism linked to pro-Palestinian demonstrations, according to Al Jazeera, Reuters, and Le Monde.