More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
The Metropolitan Police confirmed over 200 individuals have been detained during a demonstration in central London against the prohibition of Palestine Action. The arrests were made as attendees expressed support for a group classified as proscribed. Hundreds gathered in Trafalgar Square, with many holding signs advocating for Palestine Action, such as “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” These placards have appeared at previous rallies organized by the group.
Protest Context and Slogans
Known as Everyone Day, the event was organized by Defend our Juries. The group aimed to showcase “persistent resistance” to the ban on Palestine Action. Additional banners featured messages highlighting the right to protest and criticising the US and Israel. Some demonstrators also emphasized their commitment to defending free speech and opposing military actions.
Legal Background
Palestine Action was banned in July 2025 under anti-terror laws. The ban was declared unlawful in February but remained active until an appeal was resolved. Following the High Court’s ruling, the Met initially stated arrests would be less frequent. However, in March, it reversed its stance, resuming arrests for supporting the group.
Before Saturday’s gathering, the Met Police issued a warning, stating that supporting a proscribed organization constitutes a criminal offense. Commander Claire Smart, overseeing policing in London, stated, “Those attending should be aware that showing support for a proscribed organisation is an offense under the Terrorism Act, and we will not hesitate to act where the law is broken.”
Participants’ Stance
“I think the actions of Palestine Action were highly patriotic because they were protecting our country from war crimes and breaking international law,” said Robert Del Naja, founding member of Massive Attack. He added, “How much more patriotic can you be than that?”
Del Naja, who is based in Bristol, noted his confidence in defending his arrest in court, stating, “I don’t accept this as a lawful act.” Linda Walker, another participant, explained her attendance by saying, “There’s been a genocide going on for the last two-and-a-half years. The only people [the government] are willing to take action against are those trying to stop it.”
Israel has consistently denied allegations of genocide in Gaza, claiming its actions are justified as self-defense. One protester shared that she had been arrested ten times before and anticipated a similar outcome. As of 16:50 BST, the Met reported 212 arrests, with more expected as the protest continued.
Since the group’s designation under the Terrorism Act 2000 last summer, over 2,200 people have been arrested for allegedly endorsing Palestine Action. Legal proceedings for those charged with holding placards have been postponed while the court considers the validity of the group’s ban.
