British counter-terrorism officers have launched an urgent investigation near the Israeli Embassy in London following claims by an unidentified group that it had targeted the site using drones allegedly carrying hazardous substances.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that specialist officers, some wearing protective gear, were deployed to examine suspicious items discovered in the nearby Kensington Gardens. Authorities are working to determine whether the materials are linked to a video circulating online that purportedly shows drones being prepared for an attack.
According to police, the embassy itself has not been struck. “While we can confirm that the Embassy has not been attacked, we are carrying out urgent enquiries to determine the authenticity of the video and to identify any potential link between it and the items discarded,” the force said in a statement.
The video, allegedly released by a pro-Iranian group, shows an unidentified individual in protective clothing handling two drones. However, it does not depict any actual strike on the embassy, raising questions about the credibility of the claim.
As a precaution, the charity The Royal Parks announced the temporary closure of Kensington Gardens, a major public park adjacent to Kensington Palace—a residence of members of the British royal family. The closure is expected to remain in effect while investigations continue.
Witnesses reported a significant police presence earlier in the day, including armed officers—an uncommon sight in London, where routine policing is typically unarmed. By the afternoon, the number of officers at the scene had reduced, though security remained visibly heightened, with police vehicles stationed near the embassy and parts of the area screened off from public view.
The investigation is being led by the Counter Terrorism Policing, which is also examining a series of recent incidents across the capital. These include multiple suspected arson attacks, such as an assault on Jewish community ambulances last month, as well as attempted and confirmed arson incidents targeting a synagogue and the offices of a Persian-language media organization earlier this week.
Authorities have indicated that arrests have been made in connection with those cases, though it remains unclear whether there is any direct link between the arson incidents and the current investigation near the Israeli embassy.
The developments come amid heightened geopolitical tensions involving Iran and its regional adversaries, prompting increased vigilance by UK security services. While officials have not confirmed any direct threat to the embassy, the combination of online claims, suspicious materials, and recent attacks has raised concerns about potential coordinated activity.
For now, investigators are focused on verifying the authenticity of the video and assessing any credible risk posed by the items recovered. Security around diplomatic sites in London is expected to remain elevated as authorities continue their enquiries.
