More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
The Metropolitan Police reported over 200 arrests during a demonstration in central London against the ban on Palestine Action. The protests took place in Trafalgar Square, where participants carried signs advocating for the group, including “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” These slogans were prominently featured in previous rallies organized by the group.
The Ban and Legal Context
Palestine Action was proscribed under anti-terror legislation in July 2025. The government’s decision to ban the organization was later challenged in court, with a February ruling declaring the ban unlawful. However, the restriction remained active until an appeal was resolved. The police initially signaled a shift in strategy after the High Court decision, suggesting fewer arrests might occur. This changed in March, when they announced a return to detaining individuals for supporting the group.
Met Police’s Role
Before Saturday’s event, the Met issued a warning about “criminal offences” linked to backing Palestine Action, encouraging attendees to consider the “potential consequences” of participating. Commander Claire Smart, overseeing policing operations, emphasized that supporting a proscribed organization constitutes an offence under the Terrorism Act, and lawbreakers would face action.
Voices from the Protest
Several participants expressed willingness to accept arrest. Robert Del Naja, a founding member of Massive Attack, stated he attended the demonstration because he found it “ridiculous” that police were re-arresting supporters. “If I’m detained, I’ll stand in court with the right guidance and argue this was an unlawful arrest,” he said. Del Naja praised the group’s actions as “highly patriotic,” highlighting their efforts to shield the country from war crimes and international law violations.
Linda Walker, another demonstrator, cited ongoing genocide in Gaza as her reason for joining the protest. “The government only targets those who oppose it,” she claimed. Israel has consistently denied allegations of genocide, framing its actions in Gaza as self-defense. Another protester noted she had been arrested ten times prior and anticipated a similar outcome.
By 16:50 BST, the Met confirmed 212 arrests, with operations continuing as people expressed support for Palestine Action. Since the group’s ban under the Terrorism Act 2000 last summer, over 2,200 individuals have been arrested for allegedly endorsing the organization. Legal proceedings for those accused of displaying pro-Palestine placards have been delayed while the court case over the group’s legitimacy unfolds.
