Hyde Park’s Controversial Cover-Up of Holocaust Memorial during Pro-Palestinian Protest

FOX News correspondent Jeff Paul shares insights on the fourth week of pro-Palestinian protests in London during a segment on FOX Report. Recently, Hyde Park caused controversy when it covered its Holocaust memorial before an anti-Israel march took place over the weekend. Locals noticed that a blue tarpaulin was placed over the park’s monument honoring the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust in preparation for the rally protesting the war in Gaza. The Metropolitan Police denied involvement, stating that it was the decision made by park authorities. However, Royal Parks seemed to confirm their participation when they stated that during demonstrations and major events, they work closely with the police “to ensure the safety of park users and its environment.” Government advisor Lord Mann revealed he had advised covering the memorial to prevent further offense being caused towards the Jewish community, saying it was a necessary decision for both religious communities. No other monument or statue in Hyde Park was covered during this time. Advocacy groups against antisemitism largely rejected these arguments, labeling them as excuses made by protesters. “It’s shameful,” 82-year-old Holocaust survivor Noemi Ebenstein said of the decision to cover the memorial. Locals have expressed outrage at ongoing protests and also accused Metropolitan Police officers of appearing sympathetic towards activists supporting Hamas, after a video emerged earlier this month showing an officer threatening to arrest a Jewish man for potentially provoking anti-Israel protesters due to his appearance as he returned from a synagogue service while wearing a skullcap. The officer’s behaviour prompted condemnation from Falter CEO of Campaign Against Antisemitism and others alike who claim “being Jewish is not a provocation.” Following the incident, Metropolitan Police officers apologized multiple times to Falter for what they termed as an unfortunate episode during which their public statements fell short. The force clarified that protecting all communities was their duty towards maintaining peace across London, while also acknowledging that it should have been more clear in its previous statement regarding this matter.