Timothee
The statue of Sir Winston Churchill in Parliament Square has been vandalised overnight, with several politically charged messages sprayed across the monument in red paint.
Authorities confirmed that the bronze sculpture, located in Westminster, was defaced with graffiti including the phrases “Zionist war criminal,” “Stop the Genocide,” and “Free Palestine.”
Graffiti Messages Spark Concern
In addition to the main slogan, other markings on the statue read “Never again is Now” and “Globalise the Intifada.” The words were prominently displayed on the historic monument, drawing immediate public attention.
The phrase “Free Palestine” was reportedly accompanied by a red triangle symbol. The vandalism was widely shared on social media platform X, where it prompted strong reactions.
Dave Rich, director of policy at the Community Security Trust, commented publicly on the incident. Referring to the imagery in the graffiti, he stated that such extremism poses broader dangers and is “never just a threat to Jews.”
Statue Secured and Restoration Underway
Following the discovery of the damage, the statue was cordoned off by authorities. Cleaning efforts began shortly afterward to remove the red paint and restore the monument.
The statue of Churchill has stood on the north-east corner of Parliament Square since its installation in 1973. It commemorates Britain’s wartime prime minister and remains one of the most recognisable landmarks in central London.
Police Position on “Globalise the Intifada”
The phrase “Globalise the Intifada,” included in the graffiti, has previously been the subject of law enforcement scrutiny.
In December, both the Metropolitan Police and Greater Manchester Police announced that individuals chanting the slogan could face arrest.
The decision followed heightened security concerns after the Bondi Beach terror attack and a separate attack at Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester on 2 October. Authorities cited public safety and community protection as central to their stance.
Official Response Awaited
At the time of reporting, both the Metropolitan Police and Westminster City Council have been contacted for comment regarding the vandalism and any potential investigation.
The defacement of Sir Winston Churchill’s statue in Parliament Square has reignited tensions surrounding political protest, public monuments, and extremist rhetoric.
While restoration work is already underway, the incident highlights ongoing divisions over global conflicts and their local impact in the UK. Authorities are expected to review the matter as investigations continue.