More than 200 arrests at Palestine Action protest

The Metropolitan Police reported over 200 arrests during a demonstration against the prohibition of Palestine Action in central London. Officers detained individuals for supporting the organization, which had been designated as proscribed under anti-terror laws. Hundreds of protesters gathered in Trafalgar Square, with many holding signs advocating for the group, including the message “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” These placards had appeared at previous gatherings organized by the group.

Protest Details and Organizers

Named “Everyone Day,” the protest was orchestrated by Defend our Juries, who aimed to show “continued resistance to the ban on Palestine Action.” Attendees also displayed other slogans, such as “Defend the Right to Protest” and “Opposition to US and Israel.” The ban on supporting Palestine Action was imposed in July 2025, making such acts illegal under the Terrorism Act 2000. The legal challenge against the ban was declared unlawful in February, but it remained active until an appeal was resolved.

Police Stance and Warnings

Initially, the Met Police had stated they would not arrest protesters following the High Court’s ruling on the ban. However, by March, they confirmed they would once again detain individuals for supporting the group. Ahead of Saturday’s event, the Met issued a statement cautioning attendees about potential “criminal offenses” and urging them to consider the “consequences” of participating. Commander Claire Smart, leading London’s policing efforts, emphasized:

“Those attending should be aware that showing support for a proscribed organisation is an offence under the Terrorism Act, and we will not hesitate to act where the law is broken.”

Demonstrators’ Perspectives

Some participants expressed willingness to face arrest, with one stating they had been detained multiple times before and anticipated similar outcomes. Robert Del Naja, founding member of Massive Attack, attended the protest, noting he believed the police’s decision to resume arrests was “ridiculous.” He added:

“I think that the actions of Palestine Action were highly patriotic because they were pretty much protecting our country from getting involved in serious war crimes, and breaking international law. How much more patriotic can you be than that?”

Linda Walker, another demonstrator, joined to highlight the ongoing “genocide in Gaza,” asserting:

“The only people [the government] are willing to take action against are the people trying to stop it.”

As of 16:50 BST, the Met confirmed 212 arrests, with operations ongoing where individuals continued to support the group. Since the ban was imposed last summer by then-Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, over 2,200 people have been arrested for alleged support of Palestine Action. Legal proceedings for those accused of displaying placards have been postponed while the appeal against the group’s designation unfolds.