Items found near Israeli embassy are non-hazardous, police say

Two men in hazmat suits walk across the grass, shrouded by the branches of a tree. They walk towards a police van parked nearby. — Specialist emergency services units were deployed to Kensington Gardens to respond to the incident

Suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy in London were "non-hazardous", the Metropolitan Police said.

Counter-terrorism officers are continuing to investigate a video posted to social media on Friday claiming the embassy was going to be attacked with drones carrying "dangerous substances".

The embassy confirmed it had not been attacked and its staff were safe, but nearby Kensington Gardens was closed by police throughout the course of the day while specialist officers responded to the incident to assess the items.

The park reopened on Saturday and police said the items - including two jars containing a powdered substance - were not considered harmful or hazardous.

The social media video appeared to have been posted by Iran-linked Islamist group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia. It showed a target over an image of the embassy followed by people dressed in hazmat suits flying drones.

The group has also posted videos on social media about several other incidents in London, including an arson attack on four Jewish ambulances in Golders Green, an attempted arson attack on a synagogue in Finchley and an attempted arson attack on a Persian media company in Park Royal.

Police have not linked the embassy incident to any other attacks.

Cdr Helen Flanagan, of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said: "We recognise this incident and consequent police activity may have caused concern among local residents and the wider public.

"We are grateful to them for their understanding while our work was undertaken".

A Met Police chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear team was seen near the park's bandstand on Friday and police divers were spotted near the Round Pond ornamental lake.

London Fire Brigade's fire investigation dogs and London Ambulance Service's hazardous area response team were also at the scene.

Kensington Palace, where the Prince and Princess of Wales used to have their main home, is located on the western edge of Kensington Gardens.