In London, a controversy has erupted over the Metropolitan Police's response to the display of swastika signs during an anti-Israel march. Reports from various sources indicate that when confronted about the presence of swastikas, which are widely recognized as symbols of hate and antisemitism, police officers provided responses suggesting that the context of the display mattered. In one instance, a Met police officer reportedly told a concerned individual that a swastika sign's potential to disturb public order 'depends on context', while another officer was noted for his calm demeanor, explaining to an alarmed woman that displaying a swastika is 'not necessarily antisemitic', even as he was sipping his coffee. These incidents have sparked outrage and disbelief among observers, with some highlighting the irony of the police's stance given the historical and widely accepted understanding of the swastika as a symbol of antisemitism. Additionally, the police were reported to have allowed shouts of 'jihad' at these protests, further complicating the public's perception of their handling of potentially sensitive and inflammatory symbols and expressions.
London, 2024. An alarmed woman asks a policeman why he doesn't take action against someone waving a swastika. "It's not necessarily antisemitic," he explains, calmly sipping his coffee. https://t.co/5qQTRbksd1
In London, swastika signs seem allowed, "depends on context" says this police officer. https://t.co/HrDI0sq9Ez
Met police officer seems unaware why swastika on a placard might cause offence or alarm. https://t.co/zM1TGccywd
When the police allowed shouts of "jihad" at these protests on the basis that it had many peaceful meanings, I joked about the many meanings of the swastika. I didn't imagine the police would end up taking the same line. https://t.co/vaUECYDhF8
When the @metpoliceuk refuse to arrest Hamas supporters with a swastika sign today in London one officer told a girl that swastikas disturbing public order “depends on context” If you’re holding a sign with a swastika at an anti-Israel march — this is blatantly antisemitic. Come… https://t.co/MjDNnHomnv