UK: 55 arrests in London during pro-Palestine Action protests

Dozens of arrests were made today in London, as demonstrators supporting the “Palestine Action” organization gathered in Parliament Square, near Westminster. The British police announced they proceeded with 55 arrests, with several protesters wearing the characteristic black and white Palestinian scarves and holding placards with slogans supporting the organization, which has recently been classified as “terrorist.”

The British Parliament banned “Palestine Action” earlier this month, following members’ invasion of a military base, where they threw red paint on two aircraft, protesting the United Kingdom’s support for Israel. Membership or support of the organization now carries a prison sentence of up to 14 years, with the decision causing strong reactions.

The “Defend our juries” organization condemned the authorities’ stance, stating that approximately 100 people were arrested across Britain today, in cities like Edinburgh, Bristol and Manchester. According to the same source, the total number of arrests following the ban on “Palestine Action” now reaches 200.

Britain: “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action,” protesters’ slogan

Many demonstrators in London held placards with the slogan: “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action,” while during arrests, individual citizens shouted that freedom of speech in the country has been abolished. The organization itself that called for the mobilizations accused the UK government of attempting to silence voices denouncing its stance toward the Palestinian crisis.

The legality of the “Palestine Action” ban is expected to come under judicial review on Monday, with the case being heard at London’s High Court.