Veterans attending Remembrance Day parade to face increased security in response to extremist threats
The annual Remembrance Day parade will implement their biggest security operation ever to protect veterans amid concerns of terror attacks tied to Middle Eastern tensions and warnings that pro-Palestinian demonstrators may target the event.
The security will include a series of screening checks and searches, in addition to showing an e-ticket to enter Whitehall.
The former soldiers will be required to show their government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, driving licence or two utility bills to officials.
Some attendees will even have to hold their next of kin card with their contact details, while bags are banned altogether.
It follows concerns of potential terror attacks linked to heightened tension in the Middle East.
Special forces soldiers have been deployed to join counter-terror officers from the Met to stop lone-wolf attacks.
Meanwhile, undercover SAS soldiers will be amongst crowds and the SBS – Special Boat Service – will patrol the River Thames.
One source told The Sun: “I have been told to be there for 8am and bring all the ID and e-ticket. It’s hard for veterans in their 80s who struggle with computers.”
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Pro-Palestinian groups have suggested that they intend to join the crowds attending the parade at the Cenotaph.
Similar groups are set to target the Day of Remembrance across the country, as the Student Federation for a Liberated Palestine has called for a “student day of action”, co-ordinating a network of 15 pro-Palestinian student groups.
As a result, Caerdydd Students for Palestine – made up of students at Cardiff University – have planned a protest to take place this Monday.
The student group said that they would protest to “mourn and remember all of our martyrs, and remind our institutions that the student intifada isn’t going anywhere, it only continues to grow stronger”.
At last year’s annual event, pro-Palestine and hard-right protesters were condemned by the then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for their disrespect towards veterans and the Armed Forces.
However, regarding security in place for the London event this Sunday, the Royal British Legion has said: “It is standard practice.”
At the annual Remembrance Day parade, King Charles and Queen Camilla are set to be joined by Prime Minister Keir Starmer along Whitehall tomorrow.
Buckingham Palace has confirmed that Princess Kate will also step out to make public appearances this weekend in London, including at the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall with her husband, Prince William, later today.