UK arrests dozens supporting banned Palestine Action

Demonstrators attend the 'Lift The Ban' rally in London, Britain, 6 September, 2025.
Reuters

British police arrested dozens more people on Saturday under anti-terrorism laws for demonstrating in support of Palestine Action, a pro-Palestinian group banned by the government as a terrorist organisation.

Palestine Action, a group critical of the UK government’s stance on Gaza, was banned in July after members damaged military aircraft at a Royal Air Force base.

Palestine Action's ban, or proscription, puts the group alongside al-Qaeda and ISIS and makes it a crime to support or belong to the organisation, punishable by up to 14 years in prison.

"I can be unequivocal, if you show support for Palestine Action – an offence under the Terrorism Act – you will be arrested," Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan said on Friday.

On Saturday, hundreds gathered near London’s parliament to protest the ban, holding signs reading, "I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action."

Police began arresting demonstrators expressing support for the group, with dozens reportedly detained.

Authorities stressed they have the capacity and resources to process arrests under the Terrorism Act.

While the government defends the ban as a necessary response to criminal damage, human rights organisations argue it disproportionately restricts peaceful protest and freedom of expression.

Tags