The first large-scale protest against the ban on Palestine Action has commenced, following a high court ruling that deemed the group’s prohibition unlawful.
Demonstrators gathered in Trafalgar Square, London, displaying signs that read, “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” A significant number of participants occupied camping chairs and sat on the ground, showcasing their placards during the afternoon event on Saturday.
At the northern end of the square, adjacent to the National Gallery, prominent banners conveyed messages such as, “Jurors deserve to hear the whole truth,” and “Israel starves kids.”
Law enforcement officers were observed removing several individuals, including an elderly man and woman with grey hair, from the protest site. An older woman utilizing two walking sticks was also escorted away by an officer.
Shabana Mahmood has been granted permission to appeal the high court’s ruling. Initially, the Metropolitan Police announced they would halt arrests related to this matter under the Terrorism Act, focusing instead on gathering evidence for potential future legal actions.
However, after the home secretary received approval to appeal the ruling, the police department indicated a revision in their enforcement strategy, characterizing their previous statement as an “interim position.”
In February, the high court ruled that the government’s ban on the direct action group was “disproportionate and unlawful,” noting that most of their activities did not meet the criteria for terrorism based on level, scale, and persistence.
The appeal by Mahmood is scheduled for consideration on April 28 and 29.
Prior to the protest, Metropolitan Police Commander Claire Smart cautioned attendees, stating, “Those participating should understand that supporting a proscribed organization constitutes an offense under the Terrorism Act, and we will take action if the law is violated.
She added, “During previous events associated with this group, we have witnessed organized efforts to impede police operations, including obstructing officers and, at times, instances of verbal or physical aggression. Our officers are trained to handle such situations in a measured and effective manner, and we are confident in our preparedness to respond appropriately, including making arrests when necessary.”
In rebuttal, Defend Our Juries, the group facilitating the protests, stated on social media platform X, “More lies from the Met. There have been no prosecutions among our supporters related to ‘obstructing officers’ or ‘verbal or physical abuse.’ Our actions are peaceful, dignified (on our part, at least), and entirely nonviolent.”
Further updates will follow.
