Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets of central London on Sunday afternoon to mark Al-Quds Day — an annual global event dedicated to highlighting the plight of the Palestinian people under Israeli occupation.

The demonstrators gathered at Marble Arch before marching through Oxford Street, one of London’s busiest thoroughfares, culminating in a rally near the BBC’s Broadcasting House at Portland Place. The protest was marked by chants condemning Israeli aggression, waving of Palestinian flags, and banners calling for justice, freedom, and an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestine.

Among the attendees were families, students, activists, and members of the faith community, including a significant contingent of Orthodox Jews from groups such as Neturei Karta, who oppose Zionism and stood shoulder to shoulder with the Palestinian cause. Many of them held signs reading “Judaism Rejects Zionism” and “End the Occupation,” in a visible rejection of the Israeli regime’s policies.

The event also witnessed the symbolic burning of the Israeli flag by some demonstrators, reflecting the deep anger and frustration over the continued siege on Gaza, the illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank, and the ongoing violence against Palestinian civilians.

Speakers at Marble Arch and the final rally passionately addressed the crowd, condemning Israel’s war crimes in Gaza and the complicity of Western governments, including the UK, in enabling the occupation through political and military support.

Al-Quds Day, initiated by the late Imam Khomeini in 1979, is observed worldwide on the last Friday of Ramadan, with events often held on the nearest weekend. It serves as a reminder to Muslims and justice-seekers globally of their obligation to stand with the oppressed and speak out against tyranny — particularly the oppression faced by the Palestinian people.

This year’s demonstration came amid growing international outrage over Israel’s continued genocidal war on Gaza, which has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced nearly the entire population of the besieged enclave.

Organizers vowed to continue mobilizing and raising awareness until Palestine is free from occupation and its people achieve their right to self-determination. (ILKHA)