British police arrested at least 86 people across the UK on Saturday for supporting the recently proscribed protest group Palestine Action, following its ban earlier this month under anti-terrorism legislation.
The Metropolitan Police said 41 arrests were made in London for offences related to expressing support for the banned group, along with one arrest for common assault. Greater Manchester Police confirmed 16 arrests. Campaign group Defend Our Juries reported that other arrests occurred in Wales and Northern Ireland.
The crackdown follows the government’s move to classify Palestine Action alongside proscribed groups such as Hamas, al-Qaeda and ISIS, meaning membership or public support can carry a prison sentence of up to 14 years.
The decision came after Palestine Action activists broke into a Royal Air Force base and caused damage to aircraft in protest against Britain’s support for Israel. While critics of the group argue that some members have previously been charged with violence, much of their activism has involved targeting Israeli-linked companies such as Elbit Systems with property damage and demonstrations.
Near the UK Parliament in London, around 50 people gathered by the Nelson Mandela statue holding placards that read “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” The arrests followed shortly after.
Last week, 29 individuals were arrested during a similar protest in London.
A legal challenge to the group’s designation was dismissed by the courts, despite arguments that this was the first instance of the UK banning a direct-action group accused primarily of damaging property rather than causing physical harm.
The arrests come amid heightened tensions over the Gaza conflict. Israel, accused by South Africa of committing genocide, is currently facing proceedings at the International Court of Justice — charges it denies. The war began following the Hamas-led 7 October 2023 attacks on Israel.
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