Peaceful pro-Palestinian marchers flooded central London on Saturday, while clashes erupted between right-wing counter-protesters and police. The tensions stemmed from Home Secretary Suella Braverman's earlier characterization of pro-Palestinian demonstrations as "hate marches," sparking a debate on whether the march should coincide with Armistice Day events.

The clashes confirmed concerns that Braverman's comments would attract right-wing elements. The march, reportedly the largest since the conflict began, moved from Hyde Park to the U.S. Embassy. London police arrested 82 counter-protesters to prevent disturbances. Amid rising antisemitic incidents, police deployed over 2,000 officers, resisting calls to ban the march. Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf called for Braverman's resignation, blaming her for emboldening the far-right.

The law enforcement operation aims to ensure compliance with the law and prevent confrontations with counter-protesters. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Braverman expressed concerns about protests spilling into Sunday's commemoration events.

Critics warned of potential confrontations between pro-Palestinian protesters and far-right groups. Fights broke out in various locations, including near the Cenotaph and Houses of Parliament.

Police declared an exclusion zone around the Cenotaph and increased security at key locations. Pro-Palestinian march organizers insisted on avoiding conflicts with Armistice Day, emphasizing their call for an end to the Gaza bombings. Police acknowledged the steps taken but prepared for potential confrontations, pledging to use all available powers to prevent attacks on the pro-Palestinian march.