Over 100 Arrests Made During Protests Against Palestine Action Ban: What You Need to Know

Over the weekend, over 100 people were arrested during protests against the government’s decision to classify Palestine Action as a terrorist group. Demonstrations unfolded in cities like London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Bristol, and Truro.

The largest protest was in London, where police arrested 55 individuals for terrorism-related offenses. Many protesters held signs declaring, “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” As tensions rose, a significant police presence, including around 20 vans, surrounded the demonstration area.

Among those arrested were older adults, including an 81-year-old woman with a walking stick. Several protesters were physically carried away by officers, emphasizing the peaceful nature of the gathering. Additionally, 17 people were arrested in Bristol, and further arrests were made in Truro and Greater Manchester.

This wave of protests follows recent legislation under the Terrorism Act of 2000, which made supporting or being part of Palestine Action a criminal offense. This decision was a response to an incident in which activists allegedly vandalized RAF Brize Norton, leading to damages estimated at £7 million. This action prompted the government to act swiftly.

Current sentiments reflect a heightened societal divide surrounding the Palestinian issue. A recent survey conducted by YouGov revealed that 63% of Britons expressed strong feelings about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, showcasing the deep emotional stakes involved.

Social media has also played a significant role. Many users have taken to platforms like Twitter and Instagram to voice their support or opposition to the protests and the government’s actions. Trending hashtags such as #FreePalestine and #DefendOurJuries have generated thousands of posts, reflecting a broad spectrum of opinions.

As the protests continue, they coincide with a crucial High Court hearing where Huda Ammori, the co-founder of Palestine Action, will appeal the ban on the group. This ongoing legal battle underscores the complex intersection of politics, activism, and public sentiment in the UK today.

For more detailed insights into the operational areas of Palestine Action since the escalation of the Gaza conflict, you can visit [BBC News](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cly1jejw4xeo).

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