Metropolitan Police officers made multiple arrests during a tense confrontation with Palestine Action protesters in Parliament Square on Wednesday. The demonstration, which saw activists gather near the heart of UK democracy, resulted in a significant police response.
The activist group, known for its disruptive tactics targeting companies with links to Israel, had organised the protest to demand the British government sever all ties with Israeli defence manufacturer Elbit Systems. Protesters carried banners and chanted slogans calling for an end to UK complicity in the Gaza conflict.
Eyewitnesses reported a heavy police presence in the area as officers moved to contain the demonstration. The Met Police confirmed several individuals were taken into custody on suspicion of public order offences. The force stated the arrests were necessary to "prevent a breach of the peace" and maintain public safety around the parliamentary estate.
Growing Tensions Over UK-Israel Defence Ties
The protest highlights escalating tensions in Britain over the government's relationship with Israeli defence companies. Palestine Action has repeatedly targeted Elbit Systems' UK operations, claiming the company supplies weapons used against Palestinian civilians.
Wednesday's demonstration in Westminster represents a shift in tactics towards more high-profile locations. Organisers described the Parliament Square protest as a deliberate attempt to bring their message directly to lawmakers.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigations
Scotland Yard confirmed that those arrested have been taken to central London police stations for questioning. The force emphasised its commitment to balancing the right to protest with maintaining public order around key institutions.
This incident follows a pattern of increased activist targeting of defence companies with Israeli connections. Security around government buildings and defence contractors has been heightened in recent months in response to similar protests.
The Metropolitan Police indicated that investigations into the protest are ongoing and further arrests have not been ruled out. Legal observers from civil liberty groups were reportedly monitoring the police response throughout the demonstration.
