UK Police Arrest Over 523 Protesters Supporting Palestine Action Despite Court Ruling

More than 523 protesters were arrested in London during a demonstration in support of Palestine Action.

“London, United Kingdom – Police have arrested hundreds of people during a mass vigil in central London to oppose the ban on campaign group Palestine Action”

Al Jazeera

The arrests were made for showing support for a proscribed organisation, with detainees ranging in age from 18 to 87.

Al Jazeera

The protest drew over 1,000 people to Trafalgar Square, many holding signs reading I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.

The mass arrests came despite a February High Court ruling that the government's ban on Palestine Action was unlawful and disproportionate.

Amnesty International UK condemned the arrests as yet another blow to civil liberties.

Among those arrested was Robert Del Naja, founding member of Massive Attack.

The High Court ruled that the government's ban on Palestine Action was disproportionate.

The court found that the nature and extent of Palestine Action's activities had not reached the level justifying a ban.

Al-Monitor

The ban remained in force pending appeal.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the government would challenge the ruling.

Since the ban, more than 2,700 people have been arrested for expressing support for the group.

The decision to resume arrests despite the court ruling has drawn sharp criticism.

Palestine Action has distinguished itself through acts of civil disobedience targeting Israeli arms companies.

“More than 523 arrested at London protest in support of Palestine Action group 'Police knowingly unlawfully arresting peaceful protestors for holding placards which say: 'I oppose genocide - I support Palestine Action,' says organizers Burak Bir 12 April 2026•Update: 12 April 2026 İngiltere, London At least 523 protesters were arrested at a London demonstration in support of the banned activist group, Palestine Action, police said Saturday”

Anadolu Ajansı

The group repeatedly targeted Elbit Systems, causing millions in damage and forcing it to sell its UK factory.

The ban was imposed after members entered a Royal Air Force base and spray-painted aircraft.

Despite the ban, the group has maintained significant public support.

Thousands attended protests and hundreds were arrested.

The crackdown has drawn condemnation from the United Nations and human rights organizations.