Universities urge caution as 7 October protests approach
Universities across the UK are advising students to be mindful of terror-related laws as pro-Palestine demonstrations are planned to coincide with the second anniversary of the Hamas attacks on Israel on 7 October. University leaders emphasised that while campuses should be spaces for free expression, “expressing support for a terrorist organisation is a criminal offence.”
What is planned and where
Details circulating on social media and university channels suggest up to 10 events—ranging from vigils and rallies to debates—near campuses on Tuesday. An inter-university march in London has been advertised, with participants from several institutions, including King’s College London, the London School of Economics, University College London and SOAS. The route is described as a walkout of classes at 2pm, culminating at a central London venue.
Other events include a Rally for Palestine at the University of Sheffield, organised by the Revolutionary Communist party, and a Protest 4 Palestine at Strathclyde University by the Palestine Solidarity Society. At King’s College London, students from the Justice for Palestine group are organising an evening debate titled “Why it didn’t start on October 7th”, aiming to explore the historical context of the conflict.
Legal boundaries and campus safety
Universities UK (UUK) warned member institutions that the anniversary could act as a “potential flashpoint” and urged careful review of security measures. The association’s chief executive, Vivienne Stern, stressed that universities must uphold free speech, but reminded participants that support for a terrorist organisation is a criminal offence. The warning comes amid concern about a rise in antisemitic incidents over the past two years on campuses.
Stakeholder response and call for responsible protest
Louis Danker, president of the Union of Jewish Students, underscored the need to balance protest rights with safeguarding Jewish students. He called for a firm stand against the glorification of terror, noting that Jewish students seek a space to mourn on a day that marks profound loss for their community. Universities, he said, should actively counter rhetoric that endorses violence while protecting free expression within the law.
Political leaders weigh in
In a column for The Times, Labour leader Keir Starmer urged students not to participate in protests he described as “un-British.” He argued that streets should not be used to advocate murder or hatred of Jewish people and urged adherence to a standard of empathy and humanity, especially on the anniversary of atrocities.
Context and ongoing security concerns
The anniversary comes amid a long-standing and complex regional crisis that has already claimed tens of thousands of lives, including many civilians in Gaza. Police operations in major cities, including London, have seen large-scale demonstrations in the past weeks, highlighting the delicate balance between civil liberties and public safety. The UK’s higher education sector continues to navigate these tensions while supporting scholarship, debate and peaceful assembly.
Guidance for students and staff
Universities advise those planning to attend protests to stay informed about the legality of their actions, respect campus rules, and use established reporting channels if antisemitic incidents arise. Campuses are encouraged to engage with Jewish student groups and to publicise resources from Universities UK, the Community Security Trust, and the Union of Jewish Students to counter antisemitism and promote inclusive dialogue.
Bottom line
As campuses prepare for what could be a highly visible series of demonstrations, universities emphasise that free speech thrives within lawful and peaceful limits. The aim is to foster informed discussion on a contentious topic while ensuring the safety and rights of all students, staff and visiting scholars during a period already marked by heightened emotion and critical public debate.
