A protest outside the Iranian Embassy in South Kensington descended into chaos on Friday evening, leaving four police officers injured and resulting in 14 arrests. The Metropolitan Police reported that the demonstration turned violent as protesters began hurling projectiles at officers.
In a dramatic escalation, one protester managed to scale multiple balconies to reach the roof of the embassy, where they removed the Iranian flag. The individual was later apprehended on suspicion of criminal damage, trespassing on diplomatic premises, and assaulting emergency workers.
Emergency Response and Injuries The London Ambulance Service was called to the scene at approximately 8:45 PM. While four officers sustained minor injuries during the skirmish, four individuals were reportedly taken to the hospital for treatment following the disturbances.
To regain control, the Metropolitan Police invoked a Section 35 dispersal order. "During the ongoing protests, a demonstrator illegally entered private property and reached the roof to remove a flag," the Met stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter). "As the disorder continued, missiles were thrown at officers, causing several injuries."
Wider Political Context The unrest in London follows weeks of intense domestic protests in Iran. The situation has drawn international attention, with Donald Trump recently threatening the use of military force against Iran following reports of potential mass executions. However, the U.S. has appeared to step back from military escalation in recent days.
Further fueling the anger of the diaspora, internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported a near-total internet blackout in Iran on January 14. Iranians living abroad expressed deep frustration and fear, stating they have been unable to contact their families due to the regime's digital crackdown.
The 14 individuals currently in custody face various charges, including violent disorder and trespassing.
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