UK PM Starmer Plans Crackdown on Inflammatory Chants at Pro-Palestine Protests

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has proposed a review of public order laws to empower authorities to impose stricter controls on protests, particularly targeting inflammatory chants at pro-Palestinian demonstrations. This initiative follows a series of events including a terror attack on a Manchester synagogue, raising concerns about antisemitic elements and Islamist extremism within some protests. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced new powers allowing police to consider the cumulative impact of repeated protests when deciding on their legality, including the possibility of rerouting or banning demonstrations. Starmer emphasized the need to examine existing legal powers and explore if they require enhancement to effectively address chants deemed threatening, such as "globalise the intifada" and slogans calling for the destruction of Israel. The government’s approach has been met with criticism from civil liberties advocates who fear erosion of the right to protest, while Jewish community leaders have pressed for stronger measures to protect their communities. Starmer also stressed ongoing discussions with Jewish leaders and police forces to ensure a balanced and effective response to the rising tensions.