The British police announced on Sunday, November 1, 2026, that they had arrested 325 people who participated in a protest in London in support of the Palestinian Action organization. The arrests were made on Saturday, as the protest coincided with a court hearing to consider the British government's decision to ban the organization in July 2025. The government labeled Palestinian Action as a "terrorist" entity.
The protest was held in front of the US embassy in London, with a smaller gathering also taking place in front of the US consulate in Edinburgh. The British police reported that most of those arrested, 320, were detained for expressing support for a banned organization under the Terrorism Act. The arrests were part of a larger effort to crack down on support for Palestinian Action.
The US government followed Britain's lead in August, also designating Palestinian Action as a "foreign terrorist organization." This designation makes it a crime to be a member of or provide support to the organization, punishable by up to 14 years in prison. The British government has arrested over 4,000 people for showing support for Palestinian Action.
The protests were held in response to the British government's decision to ban Palestinian Action. The organization's supporters, including many elderly people and Holocaust survivors, have been vocal in their opposition to the ban. The police presence was heavy at the protests, with officers working to maintain order and prevent any potential violence.
In Edinburgh, the police reported that they were still investigating individuals who were seen wearing pro-Palestinian Action shirts or holding signs. The Scottish police stated that they would take necessary measures in due course. The protests highlighted the ongoing controversy surrounding Palestinian Action and the British government's efforts to crack down on support for the organization.
The court hearing to consider the ban on Palestinian Action was set to take place over two days. The organization's supporters argue that the ban is unjust and an attempt to silence their voices. The British government's decision to ban Palestinian Action has sparked a heated debate about free speech and the limits of protest.
The protests also drew attention to the wider issue of Palestinian rights and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Supporters of Palestinian Action argue that the organization's efforts to highlight human rights abuses in Palestine are essential. The controversy surrounding Palestinian Action is likely to continue, with both sides dug in on their positions.
Key points
- The British police arrested 325 people who participated in a pro-Palestinian protest in London.
- The US government designated Palestinian Action as a "foreign terrorist organization" in August.
- The British government's ban on Palestinian Action has sparked a heated debate about free speech and the limits of protest.
