The UK government banned Palestine Action in early July following a high-profile protest where activists broke into a Royal Air Force base and vandalized two tanker planes. This group opposes Britain’s military support for Israel amid the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
The government labeled the group a terrorist organization, criminalizing any public support, but backers argue that the ban infringes on freedom of expression and are currently challenging it in court.
Protesters Defy Ban, Seek Mass Arrests to Challenge Law Enforcement Authority
On Saturday, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the Houses of Parliament, deliberately flouting the ban by holding signs supporting Palestine Action. Their goal was to provoke mass arrests to overwhelm the police and challenge the enforceability of the law. Police arrested 365 people during the demonstration, although organizers claimed that the authorities arrested fewer people and accused the law of being ineffective.
The Metropolitan Police insisted that anyone openly supporting the banned group with placards was either arrested or in the process of being arrested, countering organizers’ claims that many evaded detentions.
Police noted that many of those present were onlookers or media and not necessarily supporters. The demonstration was unusual because protesters actively sought arrest, aiming to burden the criminal justice system as a form of protest.
London Faces Multiple Protests Over Gaza Conflict, Immigration, Hostages, and Community Tensions
The arrests were part of a broader wave of demonstrations in London, fueled by anger over the Gaza war and tensions around immigration. Palestinian supporters marched near the prime minister’s residence, criticizing the UK government for insufficient action despite plans to recognize a Palestinian state.
Meanwhile, other protests focused on demanding the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and opposing the housing of asylum-seekers in local hotels, which has sparked community tensions.
London police anticipated significant pressure due to multiple, simultaneous protests across the city. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan warned that the volume and diversity of demonstrations would demand substantial police resources to maintain order. Authorities prepared to handle potentially volatile encounters between protesters and counterprotesters amid the ongoing political and social unrest.
