More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
Over 200 Arrests at Palestine Action Protest
The Metropolitan Police reported over 200 arrests during a demonstration in central London against the prohibition of Palestine Action. The event, held in Trafalgar Square, saw participants rallying under signs endorsing the banned group, including “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” This slogan has appeared in prior protests organized by the group.
Protest Named ‘Everyone Day’
Organized by Defend our Juries, the Saturday gathering aimed to showcase “persistent resistance to the Palestine Action ban.” Attendees also carried placards criticizing U.S. and Israeli policies, while others emphasized their commitment to free speech. The ban on Palestine Action was imposed in July 2025 under anti-terror laws, though a High Court ruling in February deemed it unlawful. An appeal is still pending.
Despite the court’s decision, the Met Police resumed arrests in March, citing the need to enforce the ban. Before the protest, the force warned of “criminal offenses” and urged participants to consider the “potential consequences” of attending. Commander Claire Smart stated, “Those attending should be aware that supporting a proscribed organization is an offense under the Terrorism Act, and we will act decisively when the law is broken.”
“I think the actions of Palestine Action were highly patriotic because they were protecting our country from war crimes and breaking international law. How much more patriotic can you be than that?”
Robert Del Naja, a founding member of Massive Attack, expressed confidence in defending his right to protest in court. He noted that his arrest was “unlawful” and accepted the risk. Del Naja, whose band is renowned for the 1990s track “Unfinished Sympathy,” added that he believed the police’s decision to resume arrests was “ridiculous.”
“The only people [the government] are willing to take action against are the ones trying to stop it.”
Linda Walker, a participant, cited the ongoing genocide in Gaza as her reason for joining the demonstration. She emphasized the urgency of the cause, while another protester mentioned being arrested 10 times previously and expecting similar treatment.
By 16:50 BST, the Met confirmed 212 arrests, with operations ongoing as supporters of the banned group continued to gather. Since the ban was enforced last summer, over 2,200 people have been detained for allegedly backing Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act 2000. Legal proceedings for those accused of displaying placards have paused until the appeal on the group’s status concludes.
