UK police will enforce arrests for supporting Palestine Action amid an ongoing government appeal, following the group's proscription as a terror organization.
LONDON - London's Metropolitan Police stated on March 26, 2026, that they will likely arrest individuals showing support for Palestine Action, reversing their previous stance after a High Court ruling.
In February 2026, the High Court ruled that the UK government's ban on Palestine Action as a terror group was unlawful, leading police to ease arrests at that time.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman explained that the court has allowed the government to appeal the decision, meaning the ban remains in effect until the appeal is resolved.
Police Enforcement Details
Harman emphasized that police must enforce current laws, stating it is still a criminal offense to support Palestine Action while the appeal is pending.
The group, established in July 2020, has organized protests against companies profiting from Israeli military actions, including actions at a Royal Air Force base in Oxfordshire.
In June 2025, the UK government proscribed Palestine Action under anti-terrorism laws, categorizing it alongside groups like al-Qaeda.
Activists linked to the group held a news conference on March 26, 2026, discussing their experiences in jail and the health impacts of a hunger strike.
Human rights groups have criticized the ban as an overreach that criminalizes peaceful protest, with thousands of arrests reported in related cases.
