UK Police to Arrest Protesters Chanting ‘Globalize the Intifada’ After Antisemitic Attack

LONDON (AP) — British police say protesters who chant slogans such as “globalize the intifada” will face arrest, marking a significant shift in enforcement following a deadly antisemitic terror attack in Australia that left 15 people dead.

The Metropolitan Police and Greater Manchester Police announced Wednesday that officers will take a more assertive approach toward chants and placards viewed as inciting violence against Jewish communities, citing heightened security concerns after Sunday’s attack at a Hanukkah event on Sydney’s Bondi Beach.

“We know communities are concerned about chants such as ‘globalize the intifada,’” police said in a joint statement. “Given recent violent acts, the context has changed. Words have meaning and consequence, and those using such language should expect police action.”

All officers will be briefed on the updated guidance, authorities said.

Police will also expand use of powers under the Public Order Act, including imposing conditions on demonstrations near synagogues, particularly during religious services. Visible patrols and protective security around Jewish schools, community centers and places of worship have been increased in London and Greater Manchester.

Counterterrorism police remain on heightened alert and are intensifying investigations into hate crimes, officials said.

“Our intent is clear,” the statement added. “We aim to create a hostile environment for offenders and a safer environment for Jewish communities, while continuing to protect lawful protest.”

Police acknowledged ongoing concerns that existing public order and hate crime laws may be insufficient. They welcomed the Home Secretary’s request for Lord Ken Macdonald, a former director of public prosecutions, to review the current legal framework.

Authorities also noted that some chants long associated with protests, including “from the river to the sea,” have previously fallen below prosecution thresholds. “In the current threat environment,” police said, “we will recalibrate to be more assertive.”

Phil Rosenberg, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, welcomed the move, calling it overdue.

“Slogans like ‘globalize the intifada’ are not abstract political speech — they incite violence,” Rosenberg said. He cited deadly attacks on Jewish targets in the UK, the United States and Australia as evidence of the real-world consequences of such rhetoric.

While acknowledging the change came too late for past victims, Rosenberg said stronger enforcement could help prevent future attacks if applied consistently across government, media and civil society.