NEWS STORY
In one of the most substantial and politically charged law enforcement operations in recent memory, London’s Metropolitan Police arrested over 500 demonstrators during a protest in Parliament Square supporting the recently proscribed group, Palestine Action. Despite the emotionally charged atmosphere, the police response has been widely praised for its professionalism and restraint.
Reports confirm that as many as 532 arrests were made, many of them for displaying support for the banned organisation, now illegal under anti‑terror laws enacted just last month. Protesters marched defiantly, brandishing placards reading “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action”, and banging pot lids in clear defiance of the prohibition. Police had issued prior warnings that anyone publicly supporting a proscribed group could face arrest. Notably, nearly half of those arrested were aged 60 or older, with the sight of elderly individuals being led away prompted widespread debate on the appropriateness of policing tactics in such contexts.
Despite the contentious backdrop, police officers maintained a calm and professional bearing throughout. Even when faced with pot-banging and chants, there was no indication of heavy-handed force or reactionary use of excessive force despite the many arrests. Outside observers have underscored a troubling tension with the Government’s invocation of anti-terror legislation to suppress support for a group that, until recently, had been openly campaigning for its cause.
Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, said in a statement:
“Many people may not yet know the reality of this organisation, but the assessments are very clear – this is not a non-violent organisation.”