British police investigating train operator over pro-Palestine slogan chanting

By Merve Berker

ANKARA (AA) — The British Transport Police (BTP) has launched an investigation into a train operator who asked subway passengers for support and prayers for Palestinians, the BTP said on Saturday.

Footage has been circulating on social media showing the subway operator in London chanting slogans with passengers demonstrating solidarity with Palestinians and asking for prayers for Palestinian civilians.

The BTP said on X that officials were aware of the footage, "which suggests chants are led by driver of a train in London."

"BTP are working with Transport for London and investigating the matter," the statement added.

London has been the scene of numerous rallies in support of Palestinians since Oct. 7, when intense Israeli bombardment and blockade measures against the enclave began.

This followed Palestinian resistance group Hamas initiating Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea, and air.

Hamas said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

At least 4,385 Palestinians, including 1,756 children, have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, while the figure stands at more than 1,400 people in Israel.