Monday, March 30, 2026-The Metropolitan Police in London have arrested 18 people for showing support for the activist group Palestine Action outside New Scotland Yard, marking a significant reversal in policing policy.
The force had earlier eased arrests following a High Court ruling that found the proscription of the group unlawful, but subsequently announced it would resume detaining supporters under existing terrorism legislation while the government’s appeal proceeds.
The arrests occurred as demonstrators held signs and took part in civil‑disobedience actions organised to challenge the ban on Palestine Action, which was designated as a proscribed organisation under UK law in 2025 following protests that included damage to military infrastructure.
Critics of the policy U‑turn say it undermines free expression and press freedom, while police maintain they are enforcing the law as it currently stands.
Campaign groups and civil liberties advocates have condemned the renewed crackdown, arguing that many of those detained were peaceful protesters opposed to genocide and the use of anti‑terror powers to curtail dissent.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions in the UK over how counter‑terror legislation is applied to political protest and has reignited debate about the balance between public order and freedom of speech.
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