Police in London have started making arrests after hundreds of people deliberately defied a new law banning support for the pro-Palestinian group Palestine Action, arguing the legislation infringes on freedom of expression.
Since early July, supporters of Palestine Action have held multiple protests across the UK following Parliament’s decision to outlaw the group and prohibit public support. The ban came after activists broke into a Royal Air Force base and damaged two tanker aircraft.
On Saturday afternoon, protesters gathered in the square outside Parliament, many holding signs saying “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” This prompted police intervention.
The Metropolitan Police Service said on X that many in the crowd displayed placards supporting Palestine Action, a proscribed organization, leading officers to move in and make arrests.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper introduced the ban after activists damaged aircraft at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire on June 20, protesting Britain’s military support for Israel’s conflict with Hamas. The group had also targeted Israeli defense contractors and related sites in the UK.
Palestine Action’s supporters are legally challenging the ban, arguing the government’s terrorism designation is excessive.
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The group Defend Our Juries said on its website that expanding the definition of terrorism to include economic damage or embarrassment to the powerful undermines freedom of expression and democracy itself.
The arrests occurred amid a weekend of expected protests in London, fueled by the Gaza war and immigration concerns, leading to demonstrations and counter-demonstrations nationwide.
While Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s plan to recognize a Palestinian state has upset Israel, many British Palestinians feel the government is not doing enough to halt the Gaza conflict.
Saturday’s pro-Palestinian march was planned to end outside No. 10 Downing Street, the prime minister’s residence.
On Sunday, multiple groups will march demanding the safe release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza since the October 7, 2023 militant attacks.
Police are also preparing for protests outside hotels housing asylum seekers, where clashes have occurred between those opposing migrants and those condemning anti-immigrant racism.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan warned the events would “put pressure” on police, calling for a significant policing presence during this busy weekend of simultaneous protests.
Source: Agency