As per reports, police held back crowds of protesters outside University College London (UCL) on Saturday (04 April) as Israel-supporting demonstrators faced off with a pro-Palestine crowd. The counter-protest around 50 Israel-supporting demonstrators came in response to a pro-Palestine encampment that has been set up at the university’s campus in Bloomsbury, London.

UCL students have pitched tents near the main campus building to show their opposition to the institution’s position on the Israel-Hamas war.

• More than 40 Metropolitan Police officers were on the scene with a fleet of marked police vehicles parked nearby. Officers marshalled the crowds on either side of the road. Police were seen restraining demonstrators who attempted to cross the road.
• With protesters being prepared for a prolonged stay until demands are met, security measures including monitoring access to nearby buildings, have been implemented.
• Additionally, minor demonstrations were also reported at Barclays Bank on Tottenham Court Road, London and the Leeds Art Gallery.