In London, two pro-Palestinian activists were arrested after they disrupted the London Marathon by throwing red powder on Tower Bridge just moments before runners arrived.
The protesters, associated with the Youth Demand movement — which advocates for a government-imposed trade embargo against Israel — leapt over public barriers and spread the powder along the race path.
The disruption happened just before the first wave of elite male runners was set to reach the bridge.
“Event staff intervened and removed the protesters from the elite runners’ route, allowing them to pass without obstruction,” police stated.
Officers responded quickly, detaining the activists, who are now facing charges linked to public order offenses.
Initial assessments confirmed that the substance used was dyed chalk and did not pose any danger to participants or spectators.
This year’s marathon drew more than 56,000 runners.