Clashes Erupt at North London Protest Over Memorial for Iran’s Former Leader

Hundreds of people gathered in North London on Saturday (March 28) to protest a memorial service held for Iran’s former supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. The event, which took place at the Islamic Centre of England, drew both supporters and opponents, leading to tense confrontations.

A significant police presence was deployed to manage the situation as demonstrators on opposing sides faced off across the street. Officers were also seen monitoring the protest from a nearby residential building using video equipment.

Supporters attending the memorial carried images of Khamenei and waved Iranian flags. Many wore keffiyehs and displayed Palestinian flags, alongside placards with messages such as “Boycott Israel,” “Stop bombing Iran,” and “Free Palestine.”

Across from them, a large group of counter-protesters voiced strong opposition. Many waved the pre-1979 Iranian “sun and lion” flag, a symbol associated with the era before the Iranian Revolution. Some held signs featuring Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu, expressing support for their stance against Iran’s leadership.

The counter-protesters chanted slogans, played loud music, and in some cases danced and sang. Several carried images of Reza Pahlavi, reflecting support for Iran’s former monarchy.

Tensions escalated at times, with passing drivers honking horns and signaling support for different sides. Some vehicles displayed either the current Iranian flag or the older monarchist symbol. In one instance, a vehicle was briefly pursued by a small group of demonstrators.

Despite the unrest outside, refreshments were provided to attendees entering the memorial service, as authorities worked to prevent further escalation between the opposing groups.