UK Counter-Terrorism Police Launch Urgent Investigation Into Alleged Drone Attack on Israeli Embassy
Counter-terrorism police in the United Kingdom have initiated an urgent and high-priority investigation following the emergence of an online video that claims drones carrying dangerous and potentially hazardous substances were used in an alleged attempt to target the Embassy of Israel in London. The Metropolitan Police confirmed a major and coordinated response was activated around the prestigious Kensington Gardens area, where officers discovered a number of discarded items and immediately sealed off the entire vicinity to the public as a critical precautionary measure.
Specialist Teams Deploy to Secure Kensington Gardens Area
The iconic park, which is located adjacent to the historic Kensington Palace, remains completely closed to all visitors as intensive investigations continue. Authorities have stressed emphatically that, at this preliminary stage, there is no confirmed wider risk to public safety across London, but they have urgently advised people to avoid the Kensington Gardens area entirely as a necessary safety precaution. Officers equipped with full protective gear, including specialist chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) response teams, were deployed alongside the London Fire Brigade and ambulance hazardous response units to thoroughly assess the situation.
Clear and prominent warning signs reading Hazardous conditions, do not enter have been strategically placed around the perimeter of the park, while confused members of the public, including regular dog walkers and international tourists, were promptly turned away by officials. A spokesperson for the Israeli embassy confirmed definitively that the embassy itself had not been attacked and that all diplomatic staff were safe and accounted for, stating they remain in close and constant contact with UK authorities throughout this developing incident.
Unverified Video Circulates Online Claiming Responsibility
The investigation follows the rapid circulation of a video posted by a group identifying itself as Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya. The footage, which has not been independently verified by authorities, appears to show individuals dressed in hazmat suits meticulously preparing and launching drones carrying containers that were described in the accompanying post as containing radioactive and carcinogenic materials. Police officials stated they are working diligently to determine whether the video is genuine and whether it is directly linked to the suspicious items discovered in the park.
One witness near the scene described the unfolding situation as like something out of a movie, adding: It is very frightening to think someone may have flown a drone in carrying radioactive material. Another tourist expressed shock, noting: We love London and have always felt safe here... this is just crazy. Security sources have also raised serious questions about how any drone activity could have potentially taken place in the area, which is subject to strict and enforced no-fly restrictions due to its proximity to high-profile sites including numerous diplomatic missions and royal residences.
Incident Occurs Amid Heightened Security Tensions in London
This alarming incident comes amid significantly heightened tensions in London following recent security events, including alleged attacks targeting Jewish community sites and a separate arson investigation currently underway in the capital. In an official statement, the Metropolitan Police said: Counter Terrorism Policing London are aware of a video shared online... While we can confirm that the Embassy has not been attacked, we are carrying out urgent enquiries to determine the authenticity of the video and any potential link to the items found. Kensington Gardens will remain closed until further notice as comprehensive investigations continue, with authorities maintaining a visible and robust presence in the area.
