British police arrest more than 70 supporters of banned activist group Palestine Action

More than a week after the British government banned the activist group Palestine Action, British authorities on Saturday arrested more than 70 people suspected of supporting the group. British media reported that these demonstrations of support took place during protests in London, Cardiff, and Manchester. Activists carried signs reading "I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action."

In London, 41 people were arrested for supporting the banned group. One person was arrested for assault. The protest was organized by the activist group Defend Our Juries. Last weekend, 29 people were arrested in London during a similar protest. In Manchester, 16 protesters were arrested, and in Cardiff, 13 were arrested.

Just over a week ago, the British Parliament approved a change in the law that will now designate Palestine Action as a terrorist organization and therefore outlaw it. In the House of Commons, 385 MPs voted in favor, while 26 voted against the proposed amendment to the terrorism legislation. Anyone who now joins Palestine Action or supports any of the group's actions risks prosecution and, in extreme cases, a 14-year prison sentence.

'Orwellian measure'

Palestine Action, also active in the Netherlands, has been campaigning since 2020, primarily against the arms industry. The activists have repeatedly vandalized offices and occupied factories. According to Labour Home Secretary Dan Jarvis, the actions go too far, especially because the damage sometimes comes at a high cost.

Supporters called the ban an "Orwellian" measure afterward and announced protests in several locations across the United Kingdom. Critics and human rights organizations also argue that the ban on Palestine Action fits within a broader trend in the United Kingdom toward criminalizing solidarity with Palestinians.