A London Underground driver suspended for leading a pro-Palestine chant on a train has returned back to work after apologising to faith groups.
Footage from the train showed passengers smiling and joining in as the Transport for London (TfL) employee led chants over the Tube’s PA system.
The driver could be heard saying “free, free”, prompting crowds on the carriage to respond “Palestine”.
The driver asked riders to chant louder, and said: “Hope you all have a blessed day today, look after yourselves… and keep all those people in your prayers.”
Thousands of pro-Palestine protesters have marched through London since the start of the Israel-Hamas war
PAA TfL spokesperson said: “We can confirm that, following a thorough internal investigation in accordance with our agreed formal processes, disciplinary action has been taken with regard to the driver who made announcements on the Central line on October 21 last year.
“The driver has also written to faith groups that we have been engaging with since October to apologise for the announcements and for the impact they had on some customers travelling on the train and in the wider community.
“It is critically important to everyone at TfL that our network feels, and is, a safe and welcoming place for all Londoners, and we will do all we can to continue to ensure that.”
A Campaign Against Antisemitism spokesperson said: “This driver's conduct was grossly unprofessional.
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Tom Tugendhat added: "London's Tubes are for everyone. Many will find this intimidating."
PA“Imagine being a Jewish person on that train, not only intimidated by the numerous demonstrators around you but also in the knowledge that you might not be able to rely on the very TfL staff tasked with your safety.
“This incident was a disgrace to TfL, and coming at a time of heightened tension in London, it was downright dangerous.
“TfL's decision has made the institution complicit. Is there no accountability anymore? TfL should have fired this driver. No ifs or buts.”
At the time, Transport Secretary Mark Harper said the incident was “disturbing”.
Security Minister Tom Tugendhat added: “London's Tubes are for everyone. Many will find this intimidating.
“London Mayor Sadiq Khan has a duty to help all Londoners feel safe.”
The Israeli Embassy in the UK said: “It is deeply troubling to see such intolerance on London’s tubes… Transport for London’s public transport should be a place of safety and inclusivity for all.”
Minister for London Paul Scully advised against stoking tensions in London, where several large pro-Palestine protests have happened since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, and said Tube staff should “focus on the day job”.