More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
More than 200 Arrests at Palestine Action Protest
The Metropolitan Police reported over 200 individuals were detained during a demonstration in central London opposing the prohibition of Palestine Action. The arrests occurred as participants expressed backing for the organisation, which was designated as proscribed under anti-terror laws. Hundreds gathered in Trafalgar Square, displaying signs that read “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action,” a message seen at prior events organised by the group.
Protest Details
Named Everyone Day, the protest was called by Defend our Juries, aiming to showcase the ongoing resistance to the ban on Palestine Action. Attendees carried various slogans, including calls for the right to protest and criticism of the US and Israel. Some demonstrators voiced their commitment to defending the organisation’s activities, despite the legal risks.
Legal Context
Supporting Palestine Action became illegal in July 2025 after the government imposed a ban under the Terrorism Act. Although the High Court ruled the ban unlawful in February, it remained in effect until an appeal was resolved. The Met Police had previously indicated they would not arrest protesters following the court decision, but reversed course in March, stating they would resume actions against those endorsing the group.
“Those attending should be aware that showing support for a proscribed organisation is an offence under the Terrorism Act, and we will not hesitate to act where the law is broken,” said Commander Claire Smart, overseeing policing in London during the weekend event.
Participants were warned of potential legal repercussions, with some expressing willingness to face charges. Robert Del Naja, a founding member of Massive Attack, attended the demonstration, stating he believed police “making that U-turn to arrest people again” was “ridiculous.” He added that he felt confident in contesting any arrest in court, asserting it would be “unlawful” and therefore not acceptable.
“I think the actions of Palestine Action were highly patriotic because they were pretty much protecting our country from getting involved in serious war crimes and breaking international law. How much more patriotic can you be than that?”
Linda Walker, another protester, cited the “genocide going on for the last two-and-a-half years” as her reason for participation. She claimed the government targeted only those “trying to stop it.” Israel has consistently denied its actions in Gaza constitute genocide, arguing they are a necessary measure for self-defence.
A third demonstrator, who had previously been arrested ten times, anticipated similar outcomes this weekend. By 16:50 BST, the Met Police confirmed 212 arrests had been made, with operations continuing “where people are showing support for a proscribed organisation.” Over 2,200 individuals have been arrested since the group was banned under the Terrorism Act 2000 last summer, as Home Secretary Yvette Cooper enforced the restriction.
