More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
The Metropolitan Police reported over 200 individuals were taken into custody during a demonstration in central London opposing the prohibition of Palestine Action. The arrests occurred as participants expressed backing for the organization, which was designated as proscribed under anti-terror laws. Hundreds gathered in Trafalgar Square, with many holding signs that read “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action,” a message previously seen at the group’s rallies.
Organized by Defend our Juries, the event dubbed “Everyone Day” aimed to show continued defiance against the ban on Palestine Action. Protesters also showcased other messages, including opposition to U.S. and Israeli policies. The group’s activities became illegal in July 2025 after the government classified it as a threat under the Terrorism Act. Although a High Court ruling in February deemed the ban unlawful, it remained active until an appeal was resolved.
Initially, the Met suggested arrests would be less frequent following the court decision. However, in March, it announced a return to detaining individuals for supporting the group. Ahead of Saturday’s gathering, police issued a warning, emphasizing that endorsing a banned organization could constitute a criminal offense. Commander Claire Smart, overseeing London’s policing efforts, stated, “Those attending should be aware that showing support for a proscribed organisation is an offense under the Terrorism Act, and we will not hesitate to act where the law is broken.”
“Those attending should be aware that showing support for a proscribed organisation is an offense under the Terrorism Act, and we will not hesitate to act where the law is broken.”
Some participants expressed willingness to face legal consequences. Robert Del Naja, a founding member of the band Massive Attack, joined the protest despite knowing the risk. He remarked, “I thought police making that U-turn to arrest people again was ‘ridiculous.’ I feel confident that if arrested, I can stand up in court with the right guidance and argue that this was an unlawful act.”
“I think that 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, stated her attendance was driven by the belief that “a genocide has been happening for the last two-and-a-half years.” She added, “The only people [the government] are willing to take action against are those trying to stop it.” Israel has consistently denied allegations of genocide in Gaza, asserting its actions are a necessary defense.
A participant who had been arrested multiple times before noted their expectation of facing similar charges again. By 16:50 BST, the Met confirmed 212 arrests, with operations ongoing as people continued to show support for the banned group. Since the prohibition was imposed under the Terrorism Act 2000 last summer by then-Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, more than 2,200 individuals have been arrested for allegedly endorsing Palestine Action. Legal proceedings for those charged with displaying protest signs have been paused as the case for the ban’s validity continues.
