More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
The Metropolitan Police reported over 200 arrests during a demonstration in central London opposing the ban on Palestine Action. Officers stated that the detentions occurred as participants expressed backing for the organization, which is classified as proscribed. Trafalgar Square saw large crowds gathering, with many holding signs advocating for Palestine Action, including “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action,” a message previously seen at the group’s events.
Protest organized by Defend our Juries
Saturday’s gathering, dubbed Everyone Day, was orchestrated by Defend our Juries. The group emphasized the protest’s aim to showcase “unwaning resistance to the ban on Palestine Action.” Demonstrators also displayed other slogans, such as “Defend the right to protest” and “Oppose US and Israel.” The ban on Palestine Action was enacted in July 2025 under anti-terror laws, though it was later declared unlawful in February. The restriction remained active until an appeal was resolved.
Despite the High Court ruling, the Met initially indicated it would not arrest protesters. However, in March, it reversed its stance, stating it would continue detaining individuals supporting the proscribed group. Prior to the demonstration, the police issued a warning about “criminal offences” and advised attendees to consider “potential consequences” of participating. Commander Claire Smart, overseeing London’s policing efforts, asserted 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.”
“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.”
Some participants expressed readiness to face arrest, with Linda Walker stating her attendance was motivated by “a genocide going on for the last two and a half years.” She added, “The only people [the government] are willing to take action against are the people trying to stop it.” Another protester mentioned prior arrests, noting she had been detained 10 times before and anticipated a similar outcome.
By 16:50 BST, the Met confirmed 212 arrests, with operations ongoing as individuals continued to support the banned group. Since the ban under the Terrorism Act 2000 was enforced last summer by then-Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, more than 2,200 people have been arrested for allegedly endorsing Palestine Action. Legal proceedings for hundreds of accused individuals were paused while the dispute over the group’s designation as banned continues.
