Large-scale arrests at Palestine Action protest in the United Kingdom

In a controversial move, the British government has officially equated Palestine Action with terrorist organisations such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS, following its ban in July 2022. This decision has sparked widespread protests and criticism from human rights groups.

The Metropolitan Police began arresting individuals expressing support for Palestine Action on Saturday, according to a statement by Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan. He confirmed that those showing support for the pro-Palestinian group will be arrested.

The ban does not prevent other pro-Palestinian protests, but supporting or belonging to Palestine Action is now punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Hundreds of demonstrators gathered near parliament in central London to protest against the ban, with many holding signs that read, "I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action."

The government has not specified whether the ban on Palestine Action is permanent or temporary. However, it has accused the group of causing millions of pounds worth of criminal damage, citing incidents where members broke into a Royal Air Force base and damaged military planes.

Palestine Action, on the other hand, has accused the British government of complicity in Israeli war crimes in Gaza. The group has not publicly responded to the government's accusations of causing criminal damage.

Human rights groups have criticised Britain's decision to ban Palestine Action as disproportionate. They argue that the ban limits the freedom of expression of peaceful protesters. The Metropolitan Police has assured that they have the resources to process as many people as required, with over 500 arrests made in one day last month alone.

Despite the ban, Palestine Action continues to be a topic of heated debate, with many questioning the government's decision and its impact on freedom of speech and peaceful protest. The future of Palestine Action and its supporters remains uncertain, as the ban continues to be enforced by the British authorities.