The UK government has announced plans to outlaw the pro-Palestinian activist group Palestine Action, branding it a "threat to public order" under newly expanded protest laws. The move comes amid a crackdown on demonstrations targeting British arms companies supplying Israel.
Home Secretary James Cleverly confirmed the group would be proscribed following a series of high-profile actions including factory occupations and property damage at sites belonging to defence contractors like Elbit Systems.
Wave of Arrests Precedes Ban
Police have arrested over 200 Palestine Action members in recent months, with activists facing charges ranging from criminal damage to aggravated trespass. The group claims its direct actions aim to disrupt "Britain's complicity in Palestinian suffering".
"These arrests won't deter us," a spokesperson told The Independent. "When the government silences dissent, it proves we're effective."
Controversial Legal Powers
The ban utilises powers created by 2023's Public Order Act, which allows the Home Secretary to prohibit organisations deemed "disruptive". Critics argue the legislation dangerously curtails protest rights.
"This sets a chilling precedent," warned Liberty director Akiko Hart. "Peaceful dissent is being criminalised while arms dealers operate freely."
The prohibition will come into force next month, making membership or support for Palestine Action punishable by up to 14 years in prison.
