Britain’s High Court has ruled that the U.K. government’s designation of the protest group Palestine Action as a terrorist organization was unlawful. This decision has led to the arrests of numerous peaceful demonstrators.
According to Yasmine Ahmed, the U.K. director of Human Rights Watch, the court ruling was a significant moment filled with joy and happiness for many present. However, the battle is not yet over as the ban remains in effect pending a government appeal, leaving the fate of protesters facing charges under the Terrorism Act uncertain.
Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori hailed the court decision as a monumental victory for fundamental freedoms in Britain and the struggle for Palestinian rights. In contrast, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed disappointment with the ruling and vowed to challenge it, arguing that banning Palestine Action as a terrorist group is not disproportionate.
The Jewish organizations Board of Deputies of British Jews and the Jewish Leadership Council expressed deep concerns over the ruling, citing the impact of Palestine Action’s activities on Jewish communal life.
Palestine Action opposes British military support for Israel’s actions in Gaza following the conflict initiated by Hamas in 2023. The group came under scrutiny after activists broke into a Royal Air Force base and caused significant property damage, leading to their designation as a terrorist organization.
Since the designation, around 2,700 individuals have been arrested for supporting Palestine Action, with nearly 700 facing charges under terrorism laws. The Metropolitan Police in London stated that they would not arrest individuals expressing support for Palestine Action but would continue to gather evidence for potential future enforcement.
Human Rights Watch criticized the government’s actions, stating that the law infringes on basic rights of speech, assembly, and expression. The court judges found the terrorism designation disproportionate to the actual threat posed by Palestine Action, giving both sides time to prepare for the next hearing.
While celebrating the court victory, Yasmine Ahmed expressed concern for those still facing charges or awaiting trial, urging for swift judicial action. The future remains uncertain for individuals caught up in the legal aftermath of the Palestine Action designation.