London crackdown: 114 charged under terrorism laws for backing Palestine Action

A total of 114 people have now been charged in London with offences linked to showing support for the banned group Palestine Action, the Metropolitan Police confirmed.

The latest charges were brought against 47 individuals, all of whom were arrested during a demonstration in central London on 19 July. Police said the suspects, all living in England, were charged by post and are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in October, Caliber.Az reports via UK media.

Detective Chief Superintendent Helen Flanagan of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command warned that if convicted, those charged face “potentially serious consequences” for their careers and ability to travel.

The arrests come amid a broader crackdown on Palestine Action following its proscription by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper on July 5. The group was banned under terrorism laws after activists caused an estimated £7 million of damage by daubing paint on military jets at RAF Brize Norton.

Since the ban came into force, more than 700 people have been arrested, with police stressing that further charging decisions are expected. “We fully recognise people’s right to demonstrate peacefully, and thousands continue to protest in support of Palestine without breaking counter-terrorism laws,” Flanagan said.

Palestine Action and its supporters have condemned the ban as an attack on free speech and legitimate protest. Lawyers for co-founder Huda Ammori argue the proscription breaches human rights law.

Last month, the group won permission to challenge the ban at the High Court, with a full hearing due in November. Judges, however, refused to temporarily lift the ban, meaning Palestine Action remains a proscribed organisation and membership or support carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison.

By Khagan Isayev