A 34-year-old man has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum custodial period of 20 years after attempting to breach the Israeli embassy in London armed with two knives.
Abdullah Albadri, originally from Kuwait, made his attempt to enter the embassy building in Kensington on 28 April 2025. Armed police officers detained him before he could gain access to the premises.
Albadri had entered the United Kingdom via small boat crossing just 16 days before the incident. He was convicted by majority verdict at the Old Bailey of preparation of terrorist acts and unlawful possession of two bladed weapons.
What motivated the attack?
During his trial, evidence emerged that Albadri's motivation stemmed from the deaths of Palestinians in Gaza. The court heard testimony establishing a clear link between his stated grievances and his decision to plan the violent assault on the embassy.
How did Albadri arrive in the UK?
Albadri's journey to Britain involved multiple Channel crossings. He first travelled across the Channel by small boat in August 2021 and subsequently lodged an asylum application. However, he returned to France before any determination could be made on his claim.
In April 2025, he crossed the Channel a second time. Upon arrival, authorities placed him in hotel accommodation in Basingstoke for three days. He was subsequently informed that he did not qualify for further housing support due to his previous outstanding asylum application remaining unresolved.
Following his removal from the hotel, Albadri spent several nights sleeping outdoors in the period immediately preceding his attempted attack on the embassy.
What evidence was found at the scene?
When police apprehended Albadri at the embassy location, officers discovered a handwritten document in his possession. The text was a copy of a verse titled "the benefit of martyrdom," which prosecutors presented as evidence of his ideological motivation and preparation for the attack.
Key Facts
- Albadri was carrying two knives when he attempted to enter the Israeli embassy in Kensington on 28 April 2025
- He had been in the UK for only 16 days, having arrived via small boat crossing
- He was convicted by majority verdict of preparation of terrorist acts and possession of two bladed articles
- The court heard he was motivated by deaths of Palestinians in Gaza
- He received a life sentence with a minimum term of 20 years
