London arrests 48 for supporting banned group
Protesters gathered outside the U.S. Embassy in London to back Palestine Action, days before a Supreme Court hearing on the group's status.
By Pablo Serrano ·
The Metropolitan Police in London arrested 48 people on Saturday following a demonstration outside the U.S. Embassy. The majority of the detainees were taken into custody for expressing support for Palestine Action, a direct-action protest group that the United Kingdom designated as a proscribed terrorist organization last year.
More than 100 individuals participated in the rally. Many held signs stating, "I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action." As police moved participants into vans, demonstrators were heard chanting "free, free Palestine" and applauding.
A statement from London's Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest count. "Officers remain at the scene and are continuing to make arrests," the force said.
The legal status of Palestine Action will be tested on November 4 at the Supreme Court. The group is appealing its designation as a terror group. Supporters argue the ban is excessive and infringes upon their freedom of speech. Under current U.K. law, membership in or support for the group is a crime punishable by up to 14 years in prison.
Similar activities occurred in Scotland. A vigil took place outside the U.S. Consulate in Edinburgh, where participants held placards similar to those in London. Police Scotland reported no arrests at the Edinburgh event but said they were reviewing evidence to identify people wearing T-shirts and holding banners showing support for the proscribed organization. "Evidence is being reviewed and further action will be taken as appropriate," Police Scotland said.
The United States government designated Palestine Action as a terror group in August. Founded in 2020, the group aims to halt U.K. military support for Israel, which it accuses of committing genocide against Palestinians. The group states it disrupts "corporate enablers of the Israeli military-industrial complex." In 2024, activists entered an Elbit Systems UK factory and damaged equipment with sledgehammers and crowbars. In June 2025, activists entered a Royal Air Force base, sprayed red paint into the engines of two tanker planes, and used crowbars to cause further damage.
Source: CBS News
