UK Police Investigate Drone Threat Near Israeli Embassy

British police investigated a security incident near the Israeli Embassy in London after a pro-Iranian group claimed it targeted the premises with drones carrying dangerous substances. Matt Jukes, head of counter-terrorism at London Police, confirmed there were no signs of an attack on the embassy but officers found discarded items near the building.

The pro-Iranian group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiyya posted a video online showing drones and figures in protective gear. Jukes stated that police are investigating whether these items are linked to the video. Kensington Gardens was cordoned off, and the public was advised to avoid the area while investigations continued.

Commander Helen Flanagan of Counter Terrorism Policing London confirmed that suspicious items, including two jars containing a powdered substance, were found near the embassy but deemed non-hazardous. The park reopened after police concluded their assessment. Despite no hazardous substances being identified, authorities continue to investigate potential links between the discarded items and an online video posted by Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiyya.

The Israeli Embassy issued a statement confirming all staff were safe and no attack occurred. This incident follows several recent attacks on Jewish sites in London, including an arson attack on ambulances belonging to Hatzola near Golders Green synagogue last month. Two suspects were arrested this week over an attempted arson attack on a north London synagogue.

The entire park was closed as police assessed the discarded items with assistance from chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear teams. The Metropolitan Police emphasized there was no increased public safety risk but urged people to stay away while investigations were underway. Additionally, counter-terrorism police are investigating an arson attack on a building that formerly housed a Jewish charity in Hendon.