Tens of thousands of protesters gathered in central London on Saturday for a demonstration organized by Tommy Robinson, an activist known for his anti-immigrant and anti-Islam views. The event, called the Unite the Kingdom march, aimed to celebrate free speech and was marked by a significant turnout, with demonstrators carrying flags from England, Britain, the United States, and Israel.

By midday, crowds filled the streets south of the River Thames, making their way toward Westminster, the location of the UK Parliament. Many participants waved the Union flag and the St George's Cross, while others donned MAGA hats associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Protesters chanted slogans critical of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and displayed placards with messages such as "send them home."

Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, described the march as a unifying event for those advocating for their freedoms. He also used the occasion to mourn the recent death of Charlie Kirk, an American conservative activist who was shot earlier in the week. "Hundreds of thousands already pack the streets of central London as we Unite as one for our freedoms," Robinson posted on social media.

The demonstration coincided with a counter-protest organized by the group Stand Up to Racism, reflecting the heightened tensions surrounding immigration and free speech in Britain. This summer has seen a surge in protests related to these issues, as the country grapples with a record number of asylum claims.

Supporters at the rally expressed their views on immigration policies. Sandra Mitchell, a participant, stated, "We want our country back, we want our free speech back on track. They need to stop illegal migration into this country. We believe in Tommy."

The Metropolitan Police deployed over 1,600 officers to manage the protests, including 500 from other forces. The police aimed to ensure that demonstrators could exercise their rights while being prepared to address any incidents that might arise. Commander Clair Haynes emphasized the importance of maintaining public safety, noting the history of "anti-Muslim rhetoric and incidents of offensive chanting by a minority" at previous events. However, she reassured the community that they should not feel compelled to stay home.

The political climate in Britain has shifted significantly, with immigration becoming a central issue overshadowing economic concerns. More than 28,000 migrants have arrived in the UK via small boats this year, intensifying the debate over asylum policies and the treatment of refugees.