UK Protests Follow Palestine Action Proscription
Over 70 individuals were arrested across the United Kingdom on Saturday, July 12, during protests concerning the British government's designation of Palestine Action as a proscribed terrorist organization. These demonstrations mark the second consecutive weekend of such activity.
Palestine Action Proscription Details:
The UK government officially designated Palestine Action as a proscribed terrorist organization under the Terrorism Act 2000. This legislation came into effect on July 5, 2025.
The proscription renders membership in Palestine Action, soliciting support for the group, or publicly expressing support through various means (including chanting, specific attire, or displaying associated symbols) a criminal offense. Penalties for such offenses can extend to 14 years imprisonment.
This governmental decision followed an incident on June 20, in which Palestine Action activists reportedly breached the perimeter of a Royal Air Force (RAF) base at Brize Norton in Oxfordshire. Two Voyager aircraft were allegedly damaged with red paint and crowbars, resulting in an estimated £7 million in damage. Palestine Action issued a statement asserting these actions were in protest of the UK's military support for Israel in the Gaza conflict.
The proscription has drawn commentary from various entities, including UN experts and human rights organizations, who contend that it misapplies anti-terrorism legislation to a direct action group and may affect freedom of expression.
Protest Activity:
Demonstrations occurred in multiple UK cities, including London, Manchester, Cardiff, and Leeds.
In London, 41 arrests were made in Parliament Square, primarily for offenses related to showing support for a proscribed organization. One additional arrest was made for common assault. Greater Manchester Police reported 16 arrests in St Peter's Square, while South Wales Police made 13 arrests in Cardiff for similar offenses. An arrest was also reported in Leeds.
Protesters displayed various signs, including messages such as "I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action." Some individuals reportedly engaged in passive resistance, remaining on the ground during police actions.
Groups such as "Defend Our Juries" are organizing the protests, citing intentions to challenge the proscription and raise awareness of concerns regarding civil liberties and the right to protest.
Prior to these events, 29 individuals, including an 83-year-old priest and a human rights lawyer, were arrested for similar protests last week. These individuals were subsequently released without charge.
Palestine Action's Position:
Palestine Action, established in July 2020, identifies itself as a national activist network. The group states it employs "disruptive tactics" to target companies and institutions it considers to be facilitating Israeli military operations.
The group characterizes its activities as "genocide prevention" and as efforts to prevent "British war crimes" within the context of the Gaza conflict.
Huda Ammori, the founder of Palestine Action, has publicly encouraged supporters to continue protesting. Ammori has stated that the aim is to render the ban "unenforceable" through widespread arrests, potentially impacting the UK court system.
These events underscore an ongoing discussion within the UK concerning the relationship between national security measures, the right to protest, and the application of terrorism definitions to direct action organizations.
