The British government’s decision to classify a prominent pro-Palestinian protest group as a terrorist organization was overturned by senior judges on Friday, who deemed the ban unlawful.
This ruling represents a notable setback for Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government, which has faced substantial scrutiny over the ban and its broader implications for free speech and the fundamental right to protest.
It is important to note, however, that the High Court’s decision in Britain is subject to appeal.
Palestine Action explicitly states it does not advocate violence against individuals. Nevertheless, its members have engaged in direct action, including damaging facilities linked to an Israeli weapons manufacturer. Last June, activists also entered R.A.F. Brize Norton, the UK’s largest air force base in Oxfordshire, where they vandalized two aircraft.
The government’s subsequent ban placed Palestine Action on the same legal footing as notorious terrorist entities like Al Qaeda, the neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen Division, and Hezbollah.
This ban marked a significant precedent, as it was the first time the British government applied terrorism legislation against a group primarily for “serious damage to property,” rather than for using or threatening violence. This controversial move had drawn widespread criticism from human rights organizations and various international bodies.
Since its implementation last July, the ban on Palestine Action has resulted in over 2,000 arrests, often simply for individuals displaying signs of support for the group.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.