A major security operation is being planned ahead of the visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to London next week.

It is feared Mr Netanyahu's trip could be beset by a series of large demonstrations as he meets counterpart David Cameron, senior politicians, diplomats and Jewish community leaders.

A protest is being organised outside Downing Street by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign next Wednesday. It is thought the rally will coincide with the meeting between the leaders.

Anti-Israel activists from groups, including the Stop the War Coalition, have called on supporters to oppose the Likud chief's visit. The PSC said its supporters would "bring him to justice".

Scotland Yard would not comment on security arrangements but the JC understands that officers will run special operations throughout the duration of Mr Netanyahu's stay. He is due to arrive on Wednesday and will hold a series of briefings in central London as well as bilateral talks with senior government figures.

The implications of the nuclear deal signed by the world powers with Iran will be high on the agenda.

Concerns about the response to his visit have come after a petition called for Mr Netanyahu to be arrested under international law and charged with war crimes while in London.

The petition passed the 93,000 mark this week , raising the prospect that it could reach the 100,000 signatories needed to trigger a possible parliamentary debate.

The British government said last week that Mr Netanyahu would be welcomed in Downing Street and reiterated Britain's position as a "close friend of Israel".

He cannot be arrested in Britain because foreign leaders and ministers have diplomatic immunity.

The stop-over in London comes ahead of Mr Netanyahu's visit to the United Nations General Assembly the following week.

Hundreds of anti-Israel activists are expected to protest in Cardiff on Sunday when the Israeli national football team play Wales in a European Championship qualifier.