A 33-year-old man has pleaded not guilty to allegations that he planned a terror attack targeting the Israeli embassy in London while armed with two knives.
Abdullah Albadri stands accused of preparing for acts of terrorism on 28 April this year. Prosecutors claim his alleged plot involved composing a martyrdom note, carrying two knives, travelling to the Israeli embassy in Kensington, and attempting to breach its grounds.
Albadri, who has no fixed address, faces one charge of engaging in conduct in preparation for terrorist acts and two further counts of possessing bladed articles at Palace Green, west London, on the same date.
Appearing via videolink from Belmarsh prison, Albadri attended a preliminary hearing at the Old Bailey on Friday. During proceedings, his defence barrister, Stephanie Panchkowry, told the court that her client intends to fight the charges.
She stated, “He was a human rights activist. He was protesting and did not intend to hurt anyone.”
Albadri confirmed his identity during the session and was remanded in custody. A plea hearing has been scheduled for 3 October, with a provisional trial date earmarked for either 7 or 14 April next year at the Old Bailey.
Metropolitan Police officers from the Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command intercepted a man attempting to enter the embassy grounds at approximately 6pm on Monday, 28 April. He was promptly detained before gaining access.
The man was initially arrested for a public order offence, trespass on a protected site, and possession of an offensive weapon. Following further questioning, he was re-arrested on suspicion of an offence under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006.
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, addressed public concerns following the arrest.
He said: “We remain in close contact with those based at the Embassy of Israel and we appreciate that these charges will be concerning to them. I would like to reassure the public, however, that from our inquiries so far, we are not seeking anyone else in connection with this matter and we do not believe there is any wider threat to the public.”
As the case progresses through the judicial system, the accused remains behind bars awaiting trial. The incident has once again highlighted the constant vigilance required to protect diplomatic sites and ensure public safety, particularly in areas of political sensitivity.
The Metropolitan Police continue to monitor the situation closely, reassuring Londoners that there is no ongoing threat.
