Oxford student denies chants at London protest

He appeared in court following accusations of stirring up racial hatred.

Southwark Crown Court
Author: Shaunna BurnsPublished 27th Jan 2026

An Oxford student has denied using threatening, abusive, or insulting language during a Palestine-related protest in London.

Samuel Williams, 20, was charged following a video posted online which allegedly showed a man chanting for Gaza to "put the Zios in the ground" during a demonstration held by the Palestine Coalition on Whitehall on 11th October 2025.

Appearing in court on Tuesday, Williams, of Oxford, indicated a not-guilty plea to the charge of stirring up racial hatred.

Deputy Chief Magistrate Tan Ikram granted Williams conditional bail until his appearance at Southwark Crown Court on 24th February 2026.

The bail conditions include restricting Williams from taking part in Palestine-related protests either within the M25 or in Oxford.

The case will continue at Southwark Crown Court next month.

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