London Counter-Terror Police Confirm No Hazardous Materials Found Near Israeli Embassy
Counter-terrorism police in London have concluded that suspicious items discovered near the Israeli embassy in central London are non-hazardous, following a thorough investigation prompted by a drone attack threat. The items, which included two jars containing a powdered substance, were assessed by specialist teams over the weekend, with authorities confirming they posed no immediate danger to public safety.
Drone Threat Video Sparks Security Response
The investigation was initiated after a video surfaced online, allegedly shared by the Iran-linked Islamist group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia. The video depicted a target over an image of the Israeli embassy and individuals in hazmat suits operating drones, raising significant security concerns. In response, Kensington Gardens was temporarily closed on Friday as a precautionary measure, disrupting local activities and causing alarm among residents.
Commander Helen Flanagan of Counter Terrorism Policing London addressed the public, stating, "We recognise this incident and consequent police activity may have caused concern among local residents and the wider public. We are grateful to them for their understanding while our work was undertaken." She emphasized that while the items were deemed non-hazardous, investigations into any potential connection to the online video remain ongoing.
Specialist Teams Deployed to Scene
A significant police presence was observed near the embassy, with a van from the Metropolitan Police's chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear team stationed approximately 500 meters away in Kensington Gardens. Additional support included a fire investigation unit from the London Fire Brigade and the London Ambulance Service's hazardous area response team. Divers from the Met's underwater and confined space search team were also on site, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities treated the threat.
Despite the heightened security measures, the Embassy of Israel was not attacked, and police continue to collaborate closely with embassy security personnel to ensure the site remains safe. Commander Flanagan reiterated, "While the Embassy of Israel was not attacked, we continue to work closely with the Embassy and its security team to keep the site safe and secure."
Broader Context of Iran-Linked Activities
This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing concerns over hostile state activities in the UK, particularly involving Iran-backed groups. Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia has previously claimed responsibility for other arson attacks in north London, highlighting a pattern of aggressive actions. Police are currently investigating a suspected arson attack at a building formerly used by the Jewish community in Hendon, though they have not linked it to recent incidents such as an attempted arson at a Finchley synagogue or the torching of Jewish community ambulances in Golders Green.
In a related development, a teenage boy and two men were arrested following an attack at the offices of a Persian media organisation in Wembley, further illustrating the complex security landscape. Authorities stress that while these events are concerning, there is no evidence connecting them to the embassy threat at this time.
Impact on Local Area and Royal Connections
The closure of Kensington Gardens, a popular public space, caused temporary disruptions but the park has since reopened. Notably, Kensington Palace, located on the western edge of the gardens and formerly the main residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales, remained operational with staff continuing their work unaffected. The incident underscores the challenges of balancing security protocols with maintaining normalcy in high-profile urban areas.
As investigations proceed, counter-terror police urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The ongoing inquiries aim to determine the full extent of any threats and prevent future incidents, ensuring London's safety amidst evolving security threats.
