Metropolitan Police officers arrested eighteen members of the pro-Palestinian group Palestine Action following a dramatic protest at a London arms factory on Tuesday. The activists targeted a facility allegedly supplying components to Israeli defence companies amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Whitehall Demonstration Turns Confrontational
The protest saw activists scale the building's roof and walls while others chained themselves to entrance gates, effectively blocking access to the site. Demonstrators displayed banners reading "UK Complicit in Genocide" and "Stop Arming Israel," drawing significant attention from passing traffic and local businesses.
Met Police responded to reports of criminal damage and trespassing at approximately 7:30 AM. Officers spent over six hours negotiating with protesters before making arrests on suspicion of aggravated trespass and criminal damage.
Growing Pressure on UK Arms Exports
The demonstration represents the latest in a series of actions targeting UK-based companies with defence ties to Israel. Palestine Action and similar groups have intensified their campaigns since October, demanding the British government halt all weapons exports to Israel.
Recent government data reveals the UK licensed at least £474 million worth of arms to Israel since 2015, including components for combat aircraft and missiles. This has sparked increasing political and public debate about Britain's role in the conflict.
Police Response and Industry Impact
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed: "We responded to reports of trespass and criminal damage at a business premises. Eighteen people have been arrested for aggravated trespass and are currently in custody."
The targeted company has faced repeated protests, with activists claiming their operations make them complicit in civilian casualties in Gaza. Industry representatives have raised concerns about the impact of such demonstrations on Britain's defence manufacturing sector.
All eighteen arrested protesters remain in police custody while investigations continue. The incident highlights the growing tension between protest rights and business operations in the UK's ongoing debate about arms exports.
