More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest
During a rally opposing the restriction on Palestine Action in central London, the Metropolitan Police reported over 200 individuals were taken into custody. The arrests occurred as participants expressed solidarity with a group designated as proscribed. The demonstration, held in Trafalgar Square, featured signs endorsing the organisation with messages like “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action,” a common sight at previous gatherings led by the group.
Organised by Defend our Juries, the event was dubbed “Everyone Day” and aimed to highlight ongoing resistance to the ban. Protesters also carried placards with slogans advocating for protest rights and criticising the US and Israel. The ban on Palestine Action was enacted in July 2025 under anti-terror laws, though a High Court ruling in February deemed it unlawful. Despite this, the measure stayed in effect while an appeal was processed.
Before Saturday’s demonstration, the Met Police warned of potential legal repercussions for attendees. Commander Claire Smart, overseeing operations, stated that supporting a banned organisation is a criminal offence under the Terrorism Act, and lawbreakers would face enforcement. Some participants expressed readiness to accept the risk of being arrested, with one notable figure, Robert Del Naja of Massive Attack, declaring his intention to join the protest.
“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, who had previously remarked on the “ridiculous” decision to resume arrests, insisted he would challenge the legality of his detention in court. “This was an unlawful arrest and, therefore, I don’t accept it,” he added. Another protester, Linda Walker, cited the two-and-a-half-year conflict in Gaza as her reason for participating. “The only people [the government] are willing to take action against are the people trying to stop it,” she explained.
Israel has consistently denied allegations of genocide in Gaza, framing its actions as self-defence. A demonstrator with prior arrest experience noted that she anticipated being detained again. By 16:50 BST, the Met confirmed 212 arrests during the event, with operations continuing against those backing the proscribed group. Since the ban under the Terrorism Act 2000 was implemented last summer by then-Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, over 2,200 individuals have been arrested for allegedly supporting Palestine Action. Legal proceedings for those charged with holding protest signs have been delayed as the court case over the group’s legitimacy unfolds.
