Authorities Probing Underground Train Driver Encouraging Pro-Palestine Chant
The footage, shared on X (formerly referred to as Twitter), seems to depict the driver leading chants over the announcement system on the Central line.
The British Transport Police have confirmed they are conducting an investigation into a video that seems to depict a London Underground driver leading passengers in a chant of “free, free Palestine”.
The footage, shared on X (formerly known as Twitter), appears to capture the driver participating in the chant via the announcement system on the Central line.
The driver utters “free, free”, to which passengers respond with “Palestine” – a commonly heard chant at protests.
A crowded carriage also seems to show support by cheering for the driver.
He also stated, “I hope you all have a blessed day today and take care of yourselves. And keep all those people in your prayers.”
This video surfaced as approximately 100,000 individuals gathered in central London for a pro-Palestinian march on Saturday afternoon.
Conservative Minister for London, Paul Scully, urged staff to “focus on the day job” and cautioned against escalating tensions in the capital. He emphasised the importance of distinguishing between the terrorist actions of Hamas and the legitimate concerns of Palestinians in Gaza. Mr Scully stated, “It’s crucial that Londoners don’t escalate tensions in our city where Jews live harmoniously alongside Muslims.”
He went on to say, “Informed protest can lead to change. However, following popular trends can create divisions and fear within communities, heightening the risk to the safety of some passengers moving through those crowds.”
Mr Scully suggested that Labour mayor, Sadiq Khan, and Transport for London (TfL) should “ensure that staff are focused on the primary task of safely transporting people from point A to point B”.
Security minister Tom Tugendhat commented, “London’s Tubes are for everyone. Many may find this intimidating.” He added that the mayor “has a responsibility to ensure that all Londoners feel secure”.
British Transport Police Assistant Chief Constable Sean O’Callaghan acknowledged the circulating footage on social media which suggests chants were led by a train driver in London. He stated, “BTP is collaborating with Transport for London to investigate the matter.”
Meanwhile, a TfL spokesperson stated, “We are committed to providing a safe network for everyone and want to make it clear that London is open to everyone. We are aware of footage circulating on social media that suggests political comments may have been made by one of our Tube drivers. We are working to review the footage and ensure that the circumstances are promptly investigated.”
