Pro-Palestinian Activists Convicted for Harassing UK Justice Minister; Appeal Planned

June 2, 2025
Pro-Palestinian Activists Convicted for Harassing UK Justice Minister; Appeal Planned
  • On June 2, 2025, two pro-Palestinian activists, Ayeshah Behit and Hiba Ahmed, were convicted of harassment against Labour MP and justice minister Alex Davies-Jones in Cardiff Magistrates’ Court.

  • During the confrontation, Davies-Jones described feeling 'terrified' as the activists accused her of supporting genocide and followed her while shouting accusations.

  • The situation escalated when a manipulated video of the confrontation was shared on social media, portraying Davies-Jones as racist, which contributed to her feeling threatened.

  • As a result of the relentless abuse, Davies-Jones reduced her campaigning activities and required close protection officers for her safety.

  • Senior District Judge Paul Goldspring noted that the defendants' actions were part of a deliberate campaign to cause distress, exceeding the limits of lawful protest and free speech.

  • Behit received an 18-month conditional discharge due to a prior conviction, while Ahmed, a final-year architecture student with no previous offenses, received a 12-month conditional discharge; both were ordered to pay £650 in costs and a £26 court surcharge.

  • Following their conviction, both activists announced their intention to appeal against the verdict, claiming their goal was to raise awareness about Davies-Jones' political actions regarding Palestine.

  • Davies-Jones clarified misconceptions about her voting record regarding a ceasefire, stating she was paired in that vote and not absent by choice.

  • Davies-Jones expressed concern for her team's safety and her reputation ahead of the general election, describing the incident as escalating in intensity.

  • After their initial encounter, Davies-Jones and her team encountered Behit and Ahmed again while canvassing, which led them to end their campaign early due to harassment.

  • Davies-Jones expressed gratitude to the justice system, emphasizing the importance of allowing politicians to serve their communities without harassment or intimidation.

  • The judge expressed skepticism regarding the defendants' remorse, indicating that their views on the situation would likely persist.

Summary based on 9 sources


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