Fact Check: Six men arrested for grievous bodily harm near Iranian embassy in London
What We Know
On June 20, 2025, reports emerged that six men were arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm following an altercation outside the Iranian embassy in London. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that they responded to reports of violence shortly after 9:50 AM in Princes Gate, Knightsbridge. Two individuals were injured during the incident, with one being transported to a major trauma center and the other to a hospital; however, their injuries were not life-threatening (Sky News, Independent).
While initial reports indicated that eight men were arrested, further clarification from various news outlets confirmed that six men were indeed in custody for grievous bodily harm, while an additional man was arrested for breaching police-imposed conditions to prevent disorder (Reuters, GB News).
Analysis
The claim that "six men were arrested for grievous bodily harm near the Iranian embassy in London" is partially true. The confusion arises from the varying reports regarding the number of arrests. Some sources initially reported eight arrests, but subsequent confirmations clarified that six men were specifically arrested for grievous bodily harm, while the other two arrests involved different charges (Sky News, Independent).
The sources used in this fact-check are generally reliable, including major news outlets like Reuters and Sky News, which have established reputations for accurate reporting. However, the discrepancies in the number of arrests highlight the importance of verifying information from multiple sources before drawing conclusions.
The incident appears to have occurred during a protest that turned violent, involving groups supporting and opposing the Iranian regime. This context is crucial as it underscores the potential for misunderstandings in the reporting of events that involve multiple parties and chaotic situations (Sky News, Independent).
Conclusion
The verdict on the claim is Partially True. While it is accurate that six men were arrested for grievous bodily harm near the Iranian embassy, the initial reports of eight arrests created confusion. The situation reflects the complexities of reporting on live events, particularly those involving protests and public disorder.
Sources
- UK police arrest six on suspicion of assault near Iran's London embassy
- Eight men arrested near Iranian embassy in London after 'altercation at protest'
- Six men arrested after alleged assault outside Iranian Embassy
- Six men arrested outside Iranian Embassy in London after 'two protesters attacked'
- Six men arrested as huge brawl erupts outside Iranian embassy in London