UK Blocks Far-Right Extremists as Protests Loom

The UK has barred eleven foreign extremists, including US-based Valentina Gomez, ahead of major protests. Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlights the need to combat hatred and division. Protests include an anti-immigration march by Unite the Kingdom and a pro-Palestine counter-protest, met with heightened security measures by the Metropolitan Police.

The UK has barred eleven foreign far-right extremists from entry as massive protests loom this weekend, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Friday.

Among those blocked is US-based extremist Valentina Gomez, accused of using divisive rhetoric against Muslim communities. Starmer urged the public to "fight for the soul of the country" amid an anti-immigration march organized by Unite the Kingdom and a counter-demonstration by Stand Up to Racism, set against what the Metropolitan Police has termed an "unprecedented" security operation.

With police chiefs, Starmer reaffirmed the government's support for peaceful protest while opposing any form of hatred. The Met Police promises a zero-tolerance policy, deploying thousands of officers and using advanced resources to maintain order. Separate protests include Tommy Robinson's far-right rally and the Nakba Day pro-Palestine demonstration.