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High Court Weighs Legal Challenge to Terror Ban on Palestine Action as Protests Lead to Over 200 Arrests

Co-founder Huda Ammori is arguing that the ban infringes free speech, granting police excessive scope to shut down broader pro-Palestinian dissent.

A detained demonstrator sits inside a police van, following a protest in support of the Palestine Action group in Parliament Square in London, Britain, July 19, 2025. REUTERS/Isabel Infantes
A person holds a Palestinian flag outside the High Court on the day of a hearing about the banned pro-Palestinian campaign organisation Palestine Action, in London, Britain, July 21, 2025. REUTERS/Isabel Infantes
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Overview

  • On July 5, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper proscribed Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act 2000, making membership or support punishable by up to 14 years in prison.
  • Defend Our Juries-organised demonstrations in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Truro have produced over 200 arrests under Section 13 for displaying support for the outlawed group.
  • Metropolitan, Avon and Somerset and other police forces have confiscated placards and detained protesters, prompting a High Court judge to note officers have misapplied counterterrorism powers.
  • The government’s decision followed a June 20 action at RAF Brize Norton where activists spray-painted two Voyager aircraft, inflicting roughly £7 million in damage.
  • At today’s hearing, Ammori is seeking leave for a full judicial review of the proscription, arguing it breaches human rights and could chill legitimate protest.