Police in London have arrested nearly 500 people during a pro-Palestinian demonstration in Trafalgar Square held in defiance of the UK government’s ban on Palestine Action, now designated a terrorist organization. Among those detained were elderly people, people with disabilities, and relatives of Holocaust survivors.
What Happened During the Protest
- The protest was organized by Defend Our Juries and became a silent vigil with around 1,000 participants, many holding placards reading “I support Palestine Action” or “Stop genocide.”
- Despite appeals by the government and calls for calm following a recent synagogue attack in Manchester, the demonstration went ahead.
- Police reported that 492 people were arrested 488 for supporting the proscribed organization, and the rest for offences such as disorderly conduct or being wanted on prior warrants.
- The youngest arrested was 18, and the oldest 89. Several individuals, including the elderly and disabled, were reportedly carried out by officers because they could not walk away voluntarily.
- Six people were detained earlier in the day at Westminster Bridge for unfurling banners backing Palestine Action.
- Scenes at Trafalgar Square showed officers placing people in police vans while onlookers chanted slogans or applauded the arrests.
Legal & Political Context
- Palestine Action was proscribed in July 2025 under the UK’s Terrorism Act, following acts of vandalism at military and defense sites. Under the ban, public support for the group is treated as a criminal act.
- The government argues that the ban and arrests are necessary to maintain public safety and prevent escalation.
- Critics, including human rights groups and civil liberties advocates, say that arresting peaceful protesters, especially the elderly or disabled, raises serious questions about the balance between security and democratic freedoms.
- Amnesty International UK has expressed concern that the mass arrests may breach the UK’s obligations under human rights law, particularly the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
- Notable Individual Cases & Symbolic Arrests
- Reports mention that among those arrested was an elderly man, taken into custody during the Trafalgar Square vigil (aged 89 among those detained).
- Some detainees were relatives of Holocaust survivors, raising emotive reactions and highlighting the diversity of the protest crowd.
- A vicar participating peacefully was also reportedly carried from the square by police.
Repercussions & What’s Next
- Many of those arrested are expected to be bailed, but they may face charges under anti terrorism legislation, which carries severe penalties.
- Legal challenges are likely, especially from civil liberties groups questioning whether the ban and enforcement overshoot legitimate protest rights.
- Politicians are calling for restraint and legal clarity, especially given recent tensions and the synagogue attack in Manchester.
- The Home Office is reportedly seeking new powers to restrict repeat protests and manage locations and timing to reduce clashes and public disorder.
