Abdullah Albadri received a life sentence for preparing a terrorist attack on the Israeli embassy in Kensington. The judge set a minimum term of twenty years, reduced to 18 years and 207 days for time spent on remand. The sentencing took place at the Old Bailey on October 5, 2026.
The incident occurred on April 28, 2025. Albadri was convicted on May 1, 2026, of preparing terrorist acts and possessing bladed articles. Police officers from the Metropolitan Police’s Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command stopped Albadri as he attempted to climb the embassy fence. Thanks to their quick actions, no one was injured.
The Court Proceedings and Evidence
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Albadri was armed with two knives, each approximately 4 inches long. He was also wearing sunglasses and a red-and-white keffiyeh, also known as a shemagh, to conceal his identity. He began to climb the eight-foot-high fence before officers intervened and pulled him down. The entire attempt lasted only a few seconds.
PC Libby Chessor described the struggle to remove Albadri from the fence as difficult, noting that he held on “quite strongly.” Following his arrest, police recovered the two knives and a “martyrdom note.” Albadri’s own words to officers at the scene indicated his intent, as he asked, “I wanna make a crime inside there, why are you stopping me?” and “Why didn’t you let me in?”
The prosecution argued that Albadri had planned the attack with the intention of using violence to make a political statement. Evidence presented showed he had armed himself, disguised his appearance, and attempted to enter a diplomatic site while carrying knives.
Motivation Linked to Gaza Conflict
Prosecutors stated that Albadri’s plan was motivated by anger over events in Gaza, specifically mentioning the killing of children. Police footage captured him discussing his actions as a message related to the war, saying, “You know it’s just a message, yeah,” and “They need to stop this f** war on children.” The Crown Prosecution Service Counter Terrorism Division highlighted that the evidence demonstrated clear planning and preparation. They emphasized that the intended violence was meant to convey a political message and that the officers’ swift intervention prevented any harm.
Asylum History and Deportation
Albadri, born in Kuwait, was described in court as a failed asylum seeker. He had entered the UK twice by small boat, first in August 2021 and again in April 2025. He is expected to be deported to Kuwait after completing his prison sentence. The attempt on the Israeli embassy occurred during his second year in the UK.
Sentencing and Conviction
The conviction for preparing a terrorist act, an offense under section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006, carried the life sentence. Albadri also received a concurrent sentence of one year and six months for possessing bladed articles. This means the knife-possession sentence does not extend his overall time in prison beyond the life sentence. The minimum term of 20 years, set by the judge, was reduced to 18 years and 207 days to account for the time he had already spent in custody. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the sentence was a result of the terrorism conviction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Abdullah Albadri convicted of?
Abdullah Albadri was convicted of preparing terrorist acts and possessing bladed articles.
What was the intended target of the attack?
The intended target was the Israeli embassy in Kensington.
What was Albadri’s sentence?
He received a life sentence with a minimum term of 20 years, reduced to 18 years and 207 days for time served.
What motivated Albadri’s actions?
His actions were reportedly motivated by anger over events in Gaza, specifically the killing of children.
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