Central London became the stage for dramatic scenes of civil disobedience on Thursday as Palestine Action activists brought Whitehall to a standstill. Twelve protesters were arrested following a major demonstration that saw campaigners chain themselves to the Department for Business and Trade building.
Whitehall Brought to Standstill
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they responded to reports of protesters "locking on" to the government building shortly after 1:15 PM. The tactic, designed to maximise disruption and delay removal, effectively shut down access to the department responsible for overseeing UK arms exports.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as police worked to cut activists free from their positions while the group chanted slogans condemning British complicity in Israel's military actions in Gaza.
Demands to Halt Arms Trade
The protest group issued a clear statement of intent: "We are here to demand that the UK government immediately ends all arms trading with Israel." Palestine Action claims British-made weapons and components are enabling violence against Palestinian civilians.
This demonstration forms part of an escalating campaign of direct action targeting government departments and defence contractors across the country. The group has previously occupied factories and offices linked to the arms trade.
Police Response and Ongoing Tensions
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson stated: "Officers attended and 12 people have been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and obstruction of the highway. They remain in custody at central London police stations."
The incident highlights growing tensions in the capital regarding the UK's stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Similar protests have occurred regularly since October, though Thursday's action represented a significant escalation in tactics.
Whitehall, the administrative heart of the British government, has increasingly become a focal point for activists seeking to influence foreign policy through direct confrontation. The use of "lock-on" techniques presents particular challenges for law enforcement, often requiring specialist equipment and hours of police time to resolve.
