UK Empowers Police In Wake Of Protests

LONDON (AP) — The British government says it will give police stronger powers to restrict repeated protests. This comes after nearly 500 people were arrested at a demonstration supporting a banned pro-Palestinian group. The Home Office said Sunday it will change the law so that police can consider the cumulative impact of frequent protests on local areas. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood says there is a need to balance the right to protest with the safety of communities. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations have been ongoing since Israel’s military offensive in Gaza began. Some Jews say the protests have created a threatening atmosphere and allowed antisemitism to spread.