The London Metropolitan Police has announced an increase in patrol numbers across the city in response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinians, citing the possibility of incidents and demonstrations.
“We are aware of a number of incidents, including those that have been shared on social media, in relation to the ongoing conflict in Israel and (at) the border with Gaza,” it said in a statement on Saturday.
“The Met has increased policing patrols across parts of London in order to provide a visible presence and reassurance to our communities,” it added.
“We are aware that the ongoing conflict may lead to protests over the coming days. We will ensure that an appropriate policing plan is in place in order to balance the right to protest against any disruption to Londoners.”
Over one million Muslims live in London and are overwhelmingly sympathetic to the Palestinians. The capital also is home to around 150,000 Jews, most of whom are thought to be sympathetic to Israel.
Hamas launched Operation Al-Aqsa Flood on Saturday resulting in the deaths of hundreds of Israelis and the capture over 50 more. It said the surprise attack was in response to the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and increased settler violence. It said it fired rockets and captured many Israelis.
In turn, the Israeli army initiated Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, killing hundreds of Palestinians and hitting civilian infrastructure.
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At least 750 Israelis have been missing since fighting broke out on Saturday morning, local media reported early Sunday.
At least 313 Palestinians have been killed and nearly 2,000 others injured in the attacks, according to medical sources in Gaza, while the Israeli death toll climbed to 350.
More than 5,000 rockets have been launched by Hamas toward Israel since Saturday morning, according to the Israeli army.
