A mix of students, trade unionists and seasoned campaigners heard calls for war crimes charges to be brought against those who had organised military actions in the Jenin refugee camp.

We want Israel to have a secure future but this must not be at the expense of the Palestinians

Naomi Wayne, of Jews for Justice for Palestinians

Organisers said they were surprised and very pleased about the turnout which benefited from a break in the earlier bad weather.

Crowds marched from Hyde Park, through the streets of central London carrying placards and waving flags before gathering in Trafalgar Square to hear speeches which demanded more action from the international community.

As well as expressing support for refugees and those who had lost their homes, marchers called for sanctions to be put in place until Israel agreed to a complete withdrawal from Palestinian territory.

Naomi Wayne, of Jews for Justice for Palestinians, said: "We wanted to show solidarity with the Palestinians.

"We want to see Israeli to withdraw to the 1967 borders, from the occupied territories.

"We want Israel to sit down and negotiate with the Palestinians so they can have their own state."

She added: "We want Israel to have a secure future, but this must not be at the expense of the Palestinians.