(TJV NEWS) More than 100 individuals have been arrested across the United Kingdom for protesting in support of Palestine Action, a group that was officially designated a terrorist organisation two weeks ago.
According to Sky News, coordinated demonstrations took place on Saturday in London’s Parliament Square, as well as in Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol, and Truro. Protesters carried signs reading “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action,” despite clear legal risks associated with supporting the banned group.
In London, 55 arrests were made in Parliament Square alone for displaying signs or placards in support of the proscribed group. The Metropolitan Police, in a post on X, confirmed that the individuals were arrested under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000, which prohibits expressions of support for banned terrorist organisations and carries a maximum penalty of six months in prison.
Sky News reports that some protesters were physically removed by officers, while others were taken away in handcuffs.
Elsewhere, Greater Manchester Police confirmed the arrest of 18 individuals on similar charges. In Bristol, Avon and Somerset Police reported 17 arrests, and Devon and Cornwall Police detained eight protesters near Truro Cathedral.
According to UK law, publicly expressing support for a proscribed terrorist group such as Palestine Action can result in a prison sentence of up to 14 years, underscoring the seriousness of the government’s classification and enforcement efforts.
Palestine Action was banned earlier this month for its sustained campaign targeting Israeli-linked arms factories and UK-based defense contractors. Authorities cited its tactics and associations as grounds for the designation.
