LONDON: Police in London on Saturday arrested 523 people during a protest in Trafalgar Square opposing Britain’s ban on the pro-Palestinian group Palestine Action.
According to the Metropolitan Police, those detained were arrested for showing support for a “proscribed organisation,” in violation of UK anti-terrorism laws.
The demonstration marked the first major gathering since a February ruling by the High Court declared the government’s designation of Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation unlawful. However, Shabana Mahmood has been granted permission to appeal the decision, leaving the group’s legal status uncertain.
Palestine Action has accused the British government of complicity in what it describes as Israeli war crimes in Gaza — allegations that Israel has repeatedly denied.
The group was banned last July after some of its members broke into a Royal Air Force base, prompting lawmakers to take action under anti-terrorism legislation.
During Saturday’s protest, demonstrators carrying placards and Palestinian flags gathered in Trafalgar Square, with many seated on the ground or on camping chairs. Several participants also wore traditional black-and-white Palestinian scarves as a symbol of solidarity.
The arrests highlight rising tensions in the UK over the Gaza conflict and the balance between national security measures and the right to protest, as legal proceedings over the group’s status continue.
