In a significant display of dissent, a protest organized by Palestine Action is taking place in central London, coinciding with an anticipated government declaration regarding the group’s classification as a terrorist organization.
Hundreds gathered at Trafalgar Square after authorities prohibited their demonstration near the Houses of Parliament.
Recently, activists from Palestine Action made headlines by breaching RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where they painted military aircraft red to express their opposition to the UK’s backing of Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley expressed his shock and frustration regarding the protest, indicating that while he is concerned, there are limits to what law enforcement can do without an official proscription.
Clashes have reportedly occurred at the protest site, resulting in at least two arrests.
The organizers opted for a last-minute change of location following the implementation of an exclusion zone by Scotland Yard throughout much of Westminster.
Sir Mark emphasized that while the police do not have the legal authority to prevent the protest, they plan to enforce existing conditions strictly.
Nearby Charing Cross experienced temporary obstruction as demonstrators convened at Trafalgar Square.
Protesters displayed Palestinian flags and held up placards, chanting resolutely: “We will not be silenced.”
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is set to reveal proposals on Monday afternoon for the proscription of Palestine Action, effectively labeling the group as a terrorist organization.
Initial reports suggest that while the formal classification will begin a parliamentary process, immediate action against Palestine Action may not be taken right away.
The forthcoming move has faced backlash from several human rights organizations and activists.
Prominent Labour peer and activist Baroness Shami Chakrabarti, while condemning criminal acts in protests, characterized the proscription as “a step too far.”
Chancellor Rachel Reeves also criticized Palestine Action’s recent actions as “utterly unacceptable” in light of the official announcement expected in Parliament later.
She stated, “Damaging military assets and private property is unacceptable, regardless of one’s stance on the situation in the Middle East.”