14 Jan 2020 | 11:49 AM UTC
UK: Anti-war demonstration scheduled in Brighton January 14
Civil society group calls for anti-war protest in Brighton January 14; heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions likely
Event
The Sussex Supports the Strike civil society group has called for a protest in Brighton on Tuesday, January 14, to advocate for de-escalation in the Middle East amid a crisis between Iran and the United States. Participants plan to gather from 18:30 to 20:30 (local time) in front of the Clock Tower.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are likely near the demonstration site.
Context
The US Department of Defense released a statement on January 3 claiming responsibility for an airstrike targeting and killing Qasem Soleimani, the commander of Iran's Quds Force, near Baghdad International Airport (BGW) the same day. Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the deputy commander of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), was also killed in the strike along with six other individuals. Iranian forces have since retaliated by sending "tens" of missiles to two US bases in Iraq.
Advice
Individuals in Brighton are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
