Summary
London police arrested at least 150 people at a rally outside the UK Parliament. Protesters were demonstrating against the UK government's ban on the group Palestine Action under terrorism laws. The police reported conflicts with demonstrators, including physical and verbal abuse.
Key Facts
- London police arrested about 150 protesters at a rally calling for the end of the ban on Palestine Action.
- The rally was organized by the group Defend Our Juries and involved around 1,500 participants.
- The UK government banned Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act 2000 in July.
- The ban followed an incident where group members caused significant damage to military aircraft.
- Supporting or being a member of Palestine Action is now a criminal act punishable by up to 14 years in jail.
- The Metropolitan Police reported receiving intense abuse, including being attacked and having objects thrown at them.
- Amnesty International UK criticized the arrests, stating peaceful protest should not be criminalized.
- Palestine Action is allowed to challenge the ban in court, with an upcoming hearing scheduled.
