Police arrest 77 outside London court over Palestine Action

Police arrested dozens of people outside a London courthouse on Thursday, July 30, 2026, after they expressed support for the proscribed group Palestine Action. The arrests occurred as the group received permission to challenge its terrorist designation before the U.K. Supreme Court.

The Metropolitan Police said 77 people were detained outside Westminster Magistrates Court, most for expressing support for a proscribed organization. The protest was organized by the activist group Defend Our Juries, which had called for a demonstration despite police warnings that such expressions were a criminal offense carrying a potential 14-year prison sentence. Protesters were heard shouting, "I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action," while onlookers shouted, "Shame!"

Police had issued clear warnings on Wednesday that anyone expressing support for Palestine Action at the planned event would be arrested under the Terrorism Act. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine stated that expressing support for proscribed organizations is a clear criminal offense. He criticized the decision to proceed with the protest, noting that the related court hearings had been adjourned, making the...