UK Police Arrest 71 Palestine Action Supporters After Ban

Mass Arrests of Pro-Palestinian Activists

British police have detained 71 supporters of Palestine Action across three UK cities following the government's recent classification of the group as a terrorist organization. The arrests occurred during demonstrations protesting Israel's military actions in Gaza.

Coordinated Police Operations

In London, over 40 protesters were arrested after police intervened when demonstrators allegedly showed support for the banned organization through chants, clothing, and displaying flags. Similar operations in Manchester led to 16 arrests, while in Cardiff, 13 individuals were detained outside BBC headquarters.

Terrorism Designation Controversy

The UK government banned Palestine Action on July 5, 2025, after activists caused £7 million in damages at RAF Brize Norton by spraying paint on military aircraft. Parliament voted overwhelmingly (385-26) to add the group to the terrorism list alongside Hamas and al-Qaeda under the Terrorism Act 2000.

International Criticism

UN human rights experts and civil liberties organizations have condemned the ban, arguing that property-damaging protests without human casualties shouldn't be classified as terrorism. A High Court judicial review challenging the proscription is scheduled for July 21.