Hundreds Arrested During 1,500-Person London Protest Supporting Banned Palestine Action

Thousands of protesters gathered in central London to demonstrate in support of the banned group Palestine Action, with more than 300,000 joining the broader National March for Palestine demanding an end to the conflict in Gaza and accountability for alleged war crimes. The Metropolitan Police arrested approximately 150 to 530 protesters for supporting Palestine Action, which is considered a proscribed terrorist organization under the Terrorism Act. Clashes between police and demonstrators turned violent, with police using batons and protesters chanting slogans accusing authorities of supporting genocide, while some protesters sustained injuries. Organizers and activists condemned the British government's continued ban on Palestine Action and criticized its perceived complicity in the violence in Gaza. The protest included speeches, vigils, and moments of silence to honor victims and called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to Israel's siege. Police warned that expressing support for Palestine Action is a criminal offense and maintained a strong presence throughout the event to prevent escalation and separate opposing groups.