More than 80 counter-demonstrators were arrested as tens of thousands took part in pro-Palestinian protests in central London, reports RTE.
A total of 82 people were arrested in Touchbrook Street, Pimlico, to “prevent a breach of the peace” as the procession passed through the capital.
Police said those arrested were part of a “large group” of counter-demonstrators who were “tried to reach the main protest march”, reports RTE.
Reports indicate that some people were stopped and prevented from leaving the nearby White Swan pub, and there was a large police presence outside, including officers on horseback.
A group of around 100 people had earlier been detained near Westminster Bridge by police to prevent disruption.
Two arrests were made in this group, one for assault on a police officer and the other for possession of a controlled substance.
The Met Police posted on X, formerly Twitter: “While the two minutes’ silence was marked respectfully and without incident on Whitehall, officers have faced aggression from counter-protesters who are in the area in significant numbers,” reports RTE.
The force added: “Officers have prevented those not involved in getting on to Whitehall so it can take place without disruption, as we committed. They have faced unacceptable violence, including people throwing missiles and a metal barrier. Anyone genuinely wishing to observe the event could do so from behind barriers on the pavement which is open along one entire side of Whitehall. Officers’ efforts are on keeping the road itself clear around the Cenotaph,” reports RTE.
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