Major Kensington Gardens update after park closed for investigation near Israeli Embassy | UK | News

Kensington Gardens has reopened after the Metropolitan Police launched an investigation into several suspicious items at the London beauty centre. The items included two jars containing a powdered substance, which police confirmed was not harmful or dangerous.

Officers were also made aware of a video circulating online featuring a group claiming to target the nearby Israeli Embassy with drones carrying hazardous materials. The Met confirmed the embassy was not attacked after specialist officers were dispatched to the scene to assess items and identify any risk to the public.

Some police officers were dispatched to the area wearing protective clothing as a precaution. They have since determined there was no risk to the public and the search has ended.

The chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) team of the forces and the underwater and closed space search team were also sent to the park.

London Counter Terrorism Police Commander Helen Flanagan said: “We recognize that this incident and the resulting police activity may have caused concern among local residents and the wider public.

“We are grateful for their understanding while our investigation was carried out. Although the items found are considered non-hazardous, we are continuing to investigate whether they have any connection to the online video.

“This work is being carried out by officers from London Counter Terrorism Police and our investigations are ongoing.

“Although the Israeli Embassy was not attacked, we continue to work closely with the Embassy and security team to keep the site safe and secure.”

The message from the Israeli Embassy said: “A suspicious security incident is being investigated in the park adjacent to the Israeli Embassy in London.

“We would like to clarify that all Embassy staff are safe and the Embassy was not attacked. As always, we are in close and constant contact with local authorities.”