UK police detain more than 100 in protests against Palestine Action terror listing

More than 100 people protesting the UK government’s decision to proscribe Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation have been arrested at demonstrations across the country.

Pro-Palestine activists gathered in London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Bristol, and Truro on Saturday to voice their opposition to the ban, Caliber.Az reports via British media.

The Metropolitan Police reported that 55 individuals were arrested in Westminster alone, suspected of terrorism offences for displaying placards in support of Palestine Action during the largest protest.

Earlier this month, the government designated Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act 2000, making membership or support of the group a criminal offence. The ban followed a break-in at a Royal Air Force base linked to the group.

Demonstrators nationwide carried signs bearing messages such as "I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action."

In London, arrests took place near the Mahatma Gandhi statue in Parliament Square, where approximately 20 police vans were deployed. Officers swiftly moved in to detain those holding placards, many of whom appeared to be senior citizens.

One woman, reportedly in her 80s and using a walking stick, was among those arrested. Some protesters were led away on foot, while others had to be carried by police.

In Bristol, Avon and Somerset Police arrested 17 people under the Terrorism Act following a demonstration on College Green. Three additional individuals are expected to be invited for voluntary interviews at a later date.

In Truro, Devon and Cornwall Police detained two men and six women on suspicion of terrorism offences after a peaceful protest near the cathedral, organised by the campaign group Defend Our Juries. The force said around 30 people took part in the event.

By Khagan Isayev