An anti-war protest focusing on issues ranging from the war in Iraq to Britain's plans to replace a missile system has taken place in the UK. Thousands of people have taken part in demonstrations in London and Glasgow in Scotland.

The rallies were organised by the Stop the War coalition, which is calling for the withdrawal of troops in Iraq.

Protesters from other groups have warned against a military strike on Iran, and there were shows of support for the Palestinians. Anti-nuclear protesters also voiced opposition to the plan to replace Britain's Trident missile system.

Organisers say more than 60,000 people turned out in London.

The protests came on the day Britain also confirmed it has had talks with Washington about cooperating in a US missile defence system.

Possible Israeli attack

Israel has opened negotiations to fly through US controlled airspace in Iraq in the event that it would decide to carry out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, it was claimed yesterday.

Israel's deputy defence minister denied this.

The Daily Telegraph newspaper quoted an unnamed Israeli defence official as saying the discussions were aimed at planning for all scenarios, including any future decision to target Iran's nuclear programme.

Iran, meanwhile, played down the possibility of US military action against its nuclear programme after a veiled threat from Vice President Dick Cheney, but said it was prepared for all possible scenarios.

PHOTO CAPTION

Anti-war demonstrators put up a tent at the start of their continuous 2-day protest calling for the complete withdrawal of British troops from Iraq, opposite the entrance to British Prime Minister Tony Blair's official residence, Downing Street in London, Friday Feb. 23, 2007. (AP)

News Agencies