Thousands of people filled the streets of London on Saturday for a pro-Palestinian march, urging an immediate ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Gaza. Demonstrators held up placards bearing the words "ceasefire now," as they made their way from the city's commercial center to Westminster.

Joining the march was a giant puppet named Little Amal, representing a Syrian child refugee, in order to draw attention to the plight of refugee children. The protest in London was part of a global day of action, with demonstrations taking place in 30 countries worldwide.

To ensure the safety of the march, over 1,700 police officers were deployed, including forces from outside London. The Metropolitan Police reported that six individuals were arrested for various alleged offenses, including offensive placards and possession of stickers for criminal damage. Three individuals were also arrested under the Terrorism Act.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor of the Metropolitan Police warned that those who intentionally pushed the limits on placards or slogans could face arrest.

Flyers were distributed to protesters by the police, reminding them to "keep on the right side of the law." This follows previous demonstrations in London where numerous arrests were made for public order offenses, including carrying antisemitic signs and expressing support for Hamas, a proscribed terrorist organization in the UK.

Saturday's march marked the seventh national pro-Palestinian demonstration in London since October 7, when Hamas attacks on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,300 people and the kidnapping of over 240.

According to the Hamas-run health ministry, more than 23,000 people have lost their lives in Gaza since Israel began its retaliatory bombing campaign, followed by a ground campaign.

Despite the heavy police presence, the majority of protests in London have been peaceful with tens of thousands of participants. However, authorities have remained vigilant, enforcing limits on the protest such as adhering to the designated route to Parliament Square and finishing speeches by 16:30 GMT.

Protesters were also prohibited from entering the vicinity of the Israeli embassy in Kensington.

Home Secretary James Cleverly expressed his support for the Metropolitan Police's efforts in maintaining order and safety during the protest.

Jeremy Corbyn, former leader of the Labour Party, addressed the crowd during the march, emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire.

The Global Day of Action protest taking place in London was one of 30 such demonstrations happening worldwide. Meanwhile, a rally in support of Israel will be held in London's Trafalgar Square on Sunday.

In an unrelated incident, a fleet of electric buses was temporarily withdrawn as a precaution after one of the buses caught fire recently.

The march in London serves as a powerful reminder of the widespread support for a ceasefire in Gaza and raises awareness about the suffering endured by innocent civilians, particularly children, caught in the midst of the conflict.