Group claims to have dropped radioactive material on Israeli embassy in Kensington

UK’s Counter-terrorism police have launched an urgent investigation after a video emerged online claiming drones carrying “dangerous substances” were used in an alleged attempt to target the Embassy of Israel London.

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The Metropolitan Police confirmed a major response around Kensington Gardens, where officers discovered a number of “discarded items” and immediately sealed off the area to the public. The park, located next to Kensington Palace, remains closed as investigations continue.

Authorities stressed that, at this stage, there is no confirmed wider risk to public safety, but urged people to avoid the area as a precaution. Officers in protective gear, including specialist chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) teams, were deployed alongside the London Fire Brigade and ambulance hazardous response units.

Warning signs reading “Hazardous conditions, do not enter” have been placed around the park, while confused members of the public, including dog walkers and tourists, were turned away by officials.

A spokesperson for the Israeli embassy confirmed it had not been attacked and that all staff were safe, stating they remain in close contact with UK authorities.

The investigation follows the circulation of a video posted by a group identifying itself as Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya. The footage, which has not been verified, appears to show individuals in hazmat suits preparing and launching drones carrying containers described in the post as “radioactive and carcinogenic materials.”

Police said they are working to determine whether the video is genuine and whether it is linked to the items discovered in the park.

One witness near the scene described the situation as “like something out of a movie,” adding: “It’s very frightening to think someone may have flown a drone in carrying radioactive material.” Another tourist said the incident came as a shock, noting: “We love London and have felt safe… this is just crazy.”

Security sources also questioned how any drone activity could have taken place in the area, which is subject to strict no-fly restrictions due to its proximity to high-profile sites including diplomatic missions and royal residences.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions in London following recent security events, including alleged attacks targeting Jewish community sites and a separate arson investigation in the capital.

In a statement, the Met Police said: “Counter Terrorism Policing London are aware of a video shared online… While we can confirm that the Embassy has not been attacked, we are carrying out urgent enquiries to determine the authenticity of the video and any potential link to the items found.”

Kensington Gardens will remain closed until further notice as investigations continue.