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Police investigate suspicious items in Kensington Gardens
London's Metropolitan Police are examining several abandoned objects in Kensington Gardens following an online video in which a group claimed to have targeted the nearby Israeli embassy with drones carrying hazardous materials. The park remains closed to the public as authorities assess the situation.
Embassy confirms no attack occurred
The Metropolitan Police stated that the Israeli embassy was not attacked, despite claims made in the video. Officers are working to verify the authenticity of the footage and trace its origin. The embassy confirmed that all staff are safe and no breach of security took place.
"We wish to clarify that all Embassy staff are safe and that the Embassy was not attacked. As always we remain in close and continuous contact with the local authorities."
Spokesperson for the Embassy of Israel
Emergency services deployed to scene
A significant police presence has been established in the park, with officers maintaining a cordon around the area. Specialized units, including the Metropolitan Police's chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) team, have been observed near the park's bandstand. Police divers were also spotted searching the Round Pond ornamental lake.
London Fire Brigade's fire investigation dogs and the London Ambulance Service's hazardous area response team were also called to the scene earlier in the day. Authorities have emphasized that there is currently no elevated public safety risk.
Video claims and police response
The video in question, reportedly posted by the Iran-linked Islamist group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia, shows a drone targeting an image of the Israeli embassy. Individuals in hazmat suits are seen operating the drones in the footage. The group has previously shared videos related to other incidents in London, including arson attacks on Jewish ambulances in Golders Green and attempted arson at a synagogue in Finchley and a Persian media company in Park Royal.
However, the Metropolitan Police have stated that they are not currently linking this incident to any other attacks. Deputy Commissioner Matt Jukes confirmed that counter-terrorism policing is leading urgent inquiries to determine the video's authenticity and any potential connection to the discarded items found in Kensington Gardens.
"Counter-terrorism policing London are aware of a video shared online overnight in which a group claim to have targeted the nearby Embassy of Israel...we're carrying out urgent inquiries to determine the authenticity of the video and to identify any potential link between it and the items discarded in Kensington Gardens."
Matt Jukes, Deputy Commissioner, Metropolitan Police
Public advised to avoid the area
The Metropolitan Police have urged the public to stay away from Kensington Gardens while investigations are underway. The park is expected to remain closed throughout Friday as authorities continue their assessment.
