UK Government Bans Palestine Action, Sparking Protests and Legal Backlash
July 6, 2025
The UK government officially banned Palestine Action on July 6, 2025, following a parliamentary vote that overwhelmingly supported the proscription with 385 MPs in favor.
This ban came just hours after a Court of Appeal ruling denied Palestine Action's challenge against the designation, which categorized the group as a terror organization.
The designation was primarily due to the group's alleged involvement in significant vandalism, including an incident on June 20 that caused approximately £7 million in damages to military aircraft at RAF Brize Norton.
Palestine Action's classification as a terror group stems from serious criminal allegations, including causing extensive damages and using weapons.
Under the new law, supporting a proscribed group like Palestine Action is now a criminal offense in the UK, carrying severe penalties of up to 14 years in prison.
The protest against the ban took place in Parliament Square, London, on July 5, 2025, where demonstrators voiced their opposition despite the legal risks involved.
During the protest, 29 individuals were arrested, including 83-year-old Reverend Sue Parfitt, who was peacefully demonstrating before being taken away by police.
The protest was organized by the group Defend Our Juries, which highlighted the importance of freedom of expression and assembly.
Huda Ammori, co-founder of Palestine Action, stated that their civil disobedience would continue despite the ban, asserting that it would render the prohibition unenforceable.
Critics of the ban, including Green councillor Leslie Tate, argue that Palestine Action has a non-violent history and that the police actions reflect a troubling trend towards authoritarianism.
The Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, announced the ban after being presented with substantial evidence of Palestine Action's alleged criminal activities over the past 18 months.
Amid these developments, the Campaign Against Antisemitism has announced plans for a private prosecution against Roger Waters if authorities do not take action regarding his support for Palestine Action.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources

The Times • Jul 6, 2025
Police defend arrest of 83-year-old Palestine Action activist
Bristol Live • Jul 5, 2025
Bristol vicar, 83, taken away by police during protest in support of banned Palestine Action
Bucks Free Press • Jul 6, 2025
No age limit on law, says Met Police chief as 83-year-old arrested at protest