Over 200 Arrests During Palestine Action Protest
The Metropolitan Police reported more than 200 arrests during a recent demonstration in central London, organized by the Palestine Action group. The protest, held under the banner of “Everyone Day,” aimed to challenge the group’s designation as a banned organization. Attendees carried signs advocating for Palestine Action, including messages like “I stand against genocide. I support Palestine Action,” echoing previous rallies by the group.
Legal Context and Police Stance
Palestine Action was proscribed in July 2025 under anti-terror laws, making support for the group a criminal act. Despite a High Court ruling in February that deemed the ban unlawful, it remained in effect until an appeal is resolved. The police initially paused arrests after the court decision but resumed them in March, emphasizing their commitment to enforcing the law.
Before the event, the Met Police issued a statement cautioning participants about potential legal repercussions. Commander Claire Smart, overseeing the weekend’s policing, stated,
“Those attending should be aware that showing support for a proscribed organisation is an offence under the Terrorism Act, and we will not hesitate to act where the law is broken.”
Protesters’ Perspectives
Several demonstrators expressed willingness to face arrest, with some citing the ongoing conflict in Gaza as motivation. Linda Walker, a participant, argued,
“The only people [the government] are willing to take action against are the ones trying to stop it.”
She highlighted the genocide in Gaza, which has persisted for over two-and-a-half years. Another attendee noted their history of being arrested multiple times, expecting similar outcomes this weekend.
Notable among the detainees was Robert Del Naja, a founding member of Massive Attack. He told BBC News he believed the police’s decision to arrest again was “ridiculous,” adding,
“I think that the actions of Palestine Action were highly patriotic because they were pretty much protecting our country from getting involved in serious war crimes, and breaking international law. How much more patriotic can you be than that?”
Del Naja expressed confidence in defending his actions in court, asserting that the arrest was unlawful.
Broader Impact of the Ban
As of Saturday, the Met Police had made 212 arrests, continuing operations against individuals supporting the banned group. Since the group’s prohibition under the Terrorism Act 2000 last summer, over 2,200 people have been detained for allegedly endorsing Palestine Action. Legal proceedings for those accused of displaying placards have been suspended pending the outcome of the ongoing appeal regarding the group’s status.
