In a bid to voice their opposition against UK companies supporting the Israel Defense Force amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, six pro-Palestine activists were apprehended by London police for allegedly planning to stage a disruptive protest at the London Stock Exchange.

The arrests came after a tip-off from The Daily Express, a UK newspaper that had sent an undercover reporter to Palestine Action group meetings where the protest plans were being coordinated. Metropolitan Police Detective Superintendent Sian Thomas expressed gratitude to The Daily Express for their assistance, stating that the information provided by their investigation was vital in successfully intervening.

The activists, all aged in their 20s or early 30s, aimed to initiate a week-long series of protests, commencing on Monday morning. Their plan was to lock themselves to the doors of the London Stock Exchange in order to obstruct entry, causing potential financial losses for UK companies engaged in business with the Israel Defense Force.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has now extended to 100 days, triggered a surge of demonstrations in London since its commencement on October 7. These protests have consistently called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the surrounding areas.

According to The Daily Express report, the activists not only intended to physically obstruct the stock exchange by chaining their necks to its doors but also had plans to deploy fire extinguishers and shoot counterfeit banknotes painted red out of "money guns" around the area. Their objective was to disrupt trading, potentially resulting in significant financial losses reaching millions or even billions of pounds.

Acknowledging the disruptive intentions of the protestors, the London Metropolitan Police Force has stated that it is aware of further disruptions being planned throughout the week. The police force also assured that appropriate measures are being coordinated to effectively deal with any potential disturbances.

The arrests of the six individuals involved in the planned protest at the London Stock Exchange highlights the continuing tension surrounding the conflict in Gaza and the increasingly vocal calls for actions against companies deemed to be involved in the supply of arms to the Israel Defense Force. As the situation evolves, both activists and authorities appear to be preparing for further escalation in the days to come.