British police arrested around 425 people during a major protest in central London, where demonstrators gathered to show support for Palestine Action, a group recently banned under anti-terrorism laws. Officers reported multiple clashes as arrests were made for offences ranging from assaulting police officers to openly supporting the proscribed organisation, which now carries severe legal consequences.
The UK government outlawed Palestine Action in July after some members broke into a Royal Air Force base and damaged military planes. The group has also targeted defence companies with links to Israel, accusing Britain of aiding alleged Israeli war crimes in Gaza. Authorities argue the ban was necessary, citing millions of pounds worth of criminal damage caused by the group.
Saturday’s protest saw hundreds of people rally near parliament, holding banners reading, “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” However, police had already warned in advance that any visible support for the banned organisation would result in immediate arrests under terrorism laws.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that officers faced significant hostility during the protest, including punches, kicks, spitting, and objects being thrown. They described the level of aggression as “exceptional,” adding that more than 100 protesters have recently been charged for openly supporting the banned movement.
Palestine Action’s proscription places it in the same category as extremist organisations such as al-Qaeda and ISIS, making it illegal to support or join. Anyone convicted of backing the group faces a prison sentence of up to 14 years, highlighting the seriousness of the ban.
Human rights groups, however, have criticised the government’s decision, calling it excessive and damaging to free speech. They argue that outlawing Palestine Action unfairly criminalises peaceful protesters, while the government insists that other pro-Palestinian demonstrations remain legal and unrestricted.