UK Leader Calls 'Globalise the Intifada' Chant Racist, Urges Protest Restrictions

Starmer said the phrase leaves Jewish people feeling scared and intimidated. The attack occurred on Wednesday, prompting renewed discussions on policing pro-Palestine demonstrations. Starmer emphasized protecting freedom of speech but highlighted the need for further measures against antisemitism.

Party leader Zack Polanski discouraged use of the chant but warned against outlawing it, arguing it would restrict freedom of speech. He stated that policing language would not enhance safety for Jewish people. Polanski also apologized for sharing a social media post criticizing police handling of a suspect's arrest after the stabbing.

Footage showed officers appearing to kick the man near his head.

“I wouldn’t encourage people to use it, because actually I think you can make your point a lot more effectively and not get into this conversation about language.”

A transport secretary noted that decisions on banning specific protests are operational for police, pending a review of protest laws. The review, led by former director of public prosecutions Ken Macdonald, will address potential bans on the chant.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for stopping all pro-Gaza marches, stating they normalize hatred toward Jews. She distinguished them from a planned march by far-right activist Tommy Robinson on May 16, questioning if it creates intimidation.

A pro-Gaza protest is also scheduled for May 16 in London to mark Nakba Day. Police have powers to restrict but not outright ban protests. The government's terrorism adviser, Jonathan Hall KC, suggested a moratorium on pro-Palestinian marches, citing risks of incubating antisemitism.

However, the Green Party and another political group warned against using the attack to curtail civil liberties.

Background on the Chant The term "intifada" refers to the Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation starting in 1987. Jewish groups view "globalise the intifada" as a call for violence against Jews, while pro-Palestinian groups describe it as advocating peaceful resistance.

Police in London and Manchester have adapted approaches to the slogan, with arrests already made for its use in chants or on placards. Starmer referenced people marching with paraglider images as venerating murder.

“If you stand alongside people who say globalise the intifada, you are calling for terrorism against Jews - and people who use that phrase should be prosecuted.”

Sources indicate the cumulative impact of repeated protests on the Jewish community is under review. No comprehensive ban on protests is proposed, but targeted restrictions are being considered.