British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has signalled his intention to outlaw the phrase "globalise the Intifada" from pro-Palestine demonstrations, calling it "completely off limits." The move, reported by The Times and confirmed by Downing Street, would make chanting or displaying the slogan a criminal offence in England and Wales.
Starmer, speaking at a press conference, argued that the phrase incites violence and antisemitism, linking it to the Palestinian intifadas—uprisings marked by suicide bombings and attacks against Israelis. Critics, however, warn the ban could stifle legitimate protest and free speech, with some noting that "Intifada" in Arabic simply means "shaking off" and is used by many Palestinians to describe resistance to occupation.
Human rights groups have expressed concern that the proposed measure could criminalise political expression without clear legal definition. The government is expected to consult with police and legal experts before finalising the prohibition.