London Underground driver suspended after leading 'free Palestine' chant on Tube train

"A driver has now been identified and suspended whilst we continue to fully investigate the incident in line with our policies and procedures."

“Free Free Palestine” @TfL London Underground Tube’s driver lead the passengers in a chant, he said I wanted to join the protest but couldn’t get the day off. #LondonStandsWithPalestine #Palestine #Israel #غزة_تستغيث #فلسطين_الان pic.twitter.com/62jx8xLtyz

— Farid Ahmed (Qureshi) (@FaridQureshi_UK) October 21, 2023

The British Transport Police have launched an investigation into the incident. Assistant Chief Constable Sean O'Callaghan said the force was "aware of footage circulating on social media which suggests chants are led by driver of a train in London earlier".

The Israeli Embassy in London criticised the chant and said: "It is deeply troubling to see such intolerance on London's Tubes. Public transport should be a place of safety and inclusivity for all."

Paul Scully, Minister for London, said Tube staff should "focus on the day job" and warned against stoking tension in the capital.

The incident occurred as around 100,000 protesters took part in a pro-Palestinian demonstration at Marble Arch. 

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