Pro-Palestinian Activists Convicted for Harassing UK Justice Minister; Appeal Planned
June 2, 2025
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
Get a daily email with more UK News stories
Sources

BBC News • Jun 2, 2025
Pontypridd MP terrified by pro-Palestine activists - court
Oxford Mail • Jun 2, 2025
Two activists convicted of harassing justice minister over Israel-Hamas conflict
Oxford Mail • Jun 2, 2025
Justice minister ‘terrified’ by actions of pro-Palestinian activists, court told
Reading Chronicle • Jun 2, 2025
Justice minister ‘terrified’ by actions of pro-Palestinian activists, court told