[News] UK police arrest over 50 people at protest in support of Palestine Action

[Anti-Imperialist News]

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UK police arrest over 50 people at protest in support of Palestine Action
Presstv
August 9, 2025
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*British police have arrested more than 50 people in central London at a
demonstration in support of the banned pro-Palestinian group Palestine
Action.*

London's Metropolitan Police said in a post on X on Saturday that the
arrests took place after a "significant number of people” gathered in
Westminster's Parliament Square, where they were seen holding placards in
support of the “proscribed group.”

"Officers have moved in and are making arrests," the Met said, adding that,
"It will take time but we will arrest anyone expressing support for
Palestine Action."

Between 600 and 700 people participated in the demonstration, organized by
Defend Our Juries, as they displayed signs reading, “I oppose genocide. I
support Palestine Action.”

Video footage from the location depicted officers clashing with the
protesters, most of whom were seated on the ground, and engaging in
conversations with them before taking them away.

The Metropolitan Police stated that they had mobilized officers from other
forces to bolster a “substantial policing presence” in the capital,
anticipating a busy weekend of protests.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan warned that officers would be
ready to arrest anyone showing support for Palestine Action, urging people
to "consider the seriousness of that outcome."

Palestine Action, which targets UK-based Israeli arms factories and their
supply chains through direct action—such as splashing red paint
and destroying equipment— was officially proscribed on July 5 under the
Terrorism Act 2000.

The designation makes it a criminal offence to support or be a member of
the group, punishable by up to 14 years in prison.

The Met had threatened to take action against any public displays of
support for proscribed organizations, including chanting, clothing, and
placards.

The co-founder of Palestine Action, Huda Ammori, won a bid last week to
bring a legal challenge against the ban.

Ammori’s lawyers have argued that the ban breaches the right to free speech
and is a gag on legitimate protest.

More than 200 people have been arrested across the UK since the ban was
implemented by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper last month.
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