More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
The Metropolitan Police reported over 200 individuals apprehended during a demonstration opposing the ban on Palestine Action in central London. The arrests occurred as attendees expressed solidarity with the group, which has been designated as a proscribed organization under anti-terror laws.
Dozens of participants gathered in Trafalgar Square, holding signs that read “I stand against genocide and back Palestine Action.” These messages align with previous rallies organized by the group. The event, dubbed Everyone Day, was spearheaded by Defend our Juries, aiming to showcase ongoing resistance to the prohibition. Additional slogans emphasized support for protest rights and criticism of the US and Israel.
Support for Palestine Action became unlawful in July 2025 after the government imposed a ban via the Terrorism Act. A court ruling in February deemed the measure invalid, yet it remained active until an appeal process concluded. Initially, the police had signaled they would not enforce the ban post-judgment, but resumed arrests in March, citing legal breaches.
Met Police Warnings and Demonstrator Commitment
Before the protest, the Met issued a statement cautioning attendees about potential legal repercussions. “Participants must understand that backing a banned group constitutes an offense under the Terrorism Act,” stated Commander Claire Smart, overseeing weekend policing operations. Despite the warning, some attendees expressed readiness to face arrest.
“There’s been a genocide ongoing for two and a half years,” said Linda Walker, who joined the rally. “The government only targets those trying to halt it.”
A participant with prior arrest experience noted, “I’ve been detained ten times before and anticipate the same result.” By 16:50 BST, the police confirmed 212 arrests, with ongoing actions targeting individuals supporting the banned group. Since the summer, over 2,200 people have been arrested for allegedly endorsing Palestine Action, pending resolution of the legal dispute.
