URGENT UPDATE: UK police have arrested dozens of individuals today during a demonstration in support of the banned group, Palestine Action, near Parliament in London. This crackdown follows the government’s designation of Palestine Action as a terrorist organization under anti-terrorism laws.
The arrests occurred at approximately 2:00 PM BST, as demonstrators gathered to protest against the ban imposed in July 2025, which prohibits any support for the group. Witnesses reported a sea of placards, with many protesters holding signs stating, “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” The Metropolitan Police confirmed that arrests began shortly after the protest commenced.
In a troubling trend, police have detained over 500 supporters of Palestine Action in recent weeks, invoking the Terrorism Act. Many of those arrested include older individuals, raising concerns about the implications for peaceful protest rights. Notably, Mike Higgins, a 62-year-old visually impaired activist, stated, “And I’m a terrorist? That’s the joke of it.” Higgins, who uses a wheelchair, has been arrested previously under the same legislation.
The Metropolitan Police have warned that showing support for Palestine Action is now a criminal offense, punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan emphasized, “We have the officer numbers, custody capacity, and all other resources to process as many people as is required.”
Human rights organizations have condemned the government’s actions as disproportionate, arguing that the ban infringes upon the rights of peaceful demonstrators. Palestine Action is currently challenging the ban in court, asserting their status as a peaceful protest organization.
Today’s protests are part of a larger movement, with additional gatherings reported in Belfast and Edinburgh. Another demonstration organized by the “Palestine Coalition” took place in Russell Square, highlighting the growing discontent over the UK’s stance on Palestine.
Authorities have promised ongoing updates regarding the situation. As tensions rise, the question remains: how will the government respond to the mounting public outcry against its controversial anti-terrorism measures?
Stay tuned for more developments on this urgent situation.
