Overview
- Downing Street condemned the projection of 'from the river to the sea' onto Big Ben during a pro-Palestinian rally, sparking a debate over its meaning.
- The phrase, seen by some as calling for the eradication of Israel, was projected as MPs debated a ceasefire in Gaza, leading to chaotic scenes in the Commons.
- The Metropolitan Police stated that while the chant could be unlawful in certain contexts, its use in public protests like the one on Wednesday is not a criminal offense.
- Critics, including Conservative MP Andrew Percy, have labeled the slogan as 'genocidal', accusing the police of failing to act against what they see as hate speech.
- The Palestinian Solidarity Campaign, which organized the protest, was pleased with the projection, emphasizing the chant's role in advocating for Palestinian rights.