Major Arrests at Pro-Palestine Protest in London
Police in London made over 365 arrests during a large protest supporting Palestine Action, marking one of the most significant demonstrations against the group since it was banned under anti-terror laws. The Metropolitan Police reported that the majority of those arrested were charged with “supporting a proscribed organisation,” which is considered a criminal offense punishable by up to 14 years in prison.
The government outlawed Palestine Action in early July following its claim of responsibility for a break-in at an air force base in southern England. This incident caused approximately £7 million ($9.3 million) in damage to two aircraft. The group stated that its actions were a response to Britain’s indirect military support for Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Government's Stance and Criticism
Prior to the protests, the British interior ministry claimed that Palestine Action was suspected of other “serious attacks” involving “violence, significant injuries, and extensive criminal damage.” However, this move has drawn sharp criticism from various international organizations and human rights groups. The United Nations, Amnesty International, and Greenpeace have all condemned the ban as an overreach of legal authority and a threat to free speech.
A group called Defend Our Juries, which organized the protest, described the turnout as “unprecedented” and emphasized that participants were risking arrest and potential imprisonment to defend what they call “ancient liberties.” The group stated that their numbers are growing, with plans for further actions in September.
Public Reaction and Demonstrations
Participants in the protest gathered near Parliament, holding signs that read “Oppose Genocide, Support Palestine Action” and waving Palestinian flags. Craig Bell, a psychotherapist and protester, criticized the ban, calling it “absolutely ridiculous.” He argued that comparing Palestine Action to actual terrorist groups that kill civilians was misleading.
As police moved in on the demonstrators, some supporters applauded those being arrested and shouted “shame on you” at officers. Richard Bull, a wheelchair user attending the event, said, “This government has gone too far. I have nothing to feel ashamed of.”
Defend Our Juries claimed that only a fraction of the attendees were detained, but the Metropolitan Police denied this, stating that anyone showing support for Palestine Action would be arrested. They noted that some individuals present were merely onlookers or not visibly supporting the group.
Legal and Human Rights Concerns
The Met Police detailed how the arrested individuals were taken to temporary “prisoner processing” points, where their details were verified and they were either bailed or taken into custody. Similar arrests have been reported across the UK since the ban was implemented on July 5.
In recent weeks, the first three people were charged in the English and Welsh criminal justice system for supporting Palestine Action following their arrests at a demonstration on July 5. In Scotland, seven individuals have been charged, as the country has a separate legal system.
Amnesty International UK Chief Executive Sacha Deshmukh recently wrote to Met Police Chief Mark Rowley, urging restraint in policing those expressing support for Palestine Action. The NGO argues that such arrests may violate international human rights law.
A court challenge against the decision to proscribe Palestine Action is expected to be heard later this year. The case could have significant implications for the balance between national security and civil liberties in the UK.