Kensington Gardens in central London has reopened following a temporary closure after police discovered several suspicious items near the Israeli embassy, including two jars containing a powdered substance that were subsequently cleared as non-hazardous, according to authorities.
Officers in protective clothing were deployed to the area on Friday after counter-terrorism specialists investigated a video circulating online in which a group claimed to have targeted the nearby Israeli embassy with what they described as dangerous substances, the Guardian reported.
Police cordoned off sections of the public park while specialist teams assessed the items. After examination, authorities confirmed the substances posed no threat to the public and lifted restrictions, allowing visitors to return to the gardens.
Counter-terrorism response
The deployment of counter-terrorism officers reflects standard procedure when online threats are made against diplomatic targets, particularly embassies, which carry heightened security designations. The Israeli embassy in London has periodically been the subject of protests and security alerts in recent years.
The incident prompted a significant police presence in the area, with Kensington Gardens - one of London's most visited royal parks, situated adjacent to Kensington Palace - closed to the public for a period while the investigation took place.
Investigation ongoing
While the substances were cleared as non-hazardous, it was not immediately confirmed whether police had identified or detained those responsible for placing the items or posting the online video claiming responsibility. Investigations into the source of the threat were continuing, according to reports.
The Israeli embassy is located on Palace Green, which borders the western edge of Kensington Gardens, placing the diplomatic mission in close proximity to the park.
Authorities have not publicly named the group that posted the online video making the claim, and no arrests had been publicly confirmed at the time of reporting.
