Israeli Embassy security scare: Controlled explosion on 'suspicious vehicle' by London police

The vehicle is no longer considered suspicious and the operation has been stood down

The ‘suspicious vehicle’ following the controlled explosion

A controlled explosion of a "suspicious vehicle" has been carried out near the Israeli Embassy in Kensington, west London, police have said.

Metropolitan Police attended the scene and cordoned off part of High Street Kensington at around 6pm on Wednesday. Witnesses reported hearing an explosion.

It is understood that High Street Kensington tube station was evacuated and shut, while shops including Whole Foods supermarket were affected by the incident.

A Met Police spokeswoman said: "A controlled explosion was carried out after a suspicious vehicle was found parked opposite the Israeli Embassy".

The vehicle is no longer considered suspicious and the operation has been stood down. The area is now re-opened.

The Israeli Embassy is adjacent to Palace Green and less than 100 metres from Kensington Palace.