Hundreds Detained in London During Demonstrations Backing Banned Group Palestine Action

Hundreds of demonstrators assembled outside the United States Embassy in south London for a midday gathering to protest the British government's prohibition of Palestine Action. Detentions began shortly after crowds arrived at the Battersea site, according to reporting by Middle East Eye and AFP.^4,7,10

Police arrest counts rose significantly as the operation progressed. Initial updates from the Metropolitan Police cited 48 arrests, while The Hindu later reported 139 people taken into custody. In figures released the following day, The Guardian reported that authorities detained 325 people in total, including 320 individuals outside the embassy complex.^4,6,10

Those detained were accused of demonstrating support for a group outlawed under the Terrorism Act. The event occurred shortly before the Supreme Court was scheduled to hear an appeal challenging the official ban. Campaign organization Defend Our Juries stated that among those taken into custody was 94-year-old former human rights lawyer Margaret Owen.^4,8,10

The gathering drew a notable number of older demonstrators, with many holding placards stating opposition to genocide and support for Palestine Action, The Hindu noted. Middle East Eye reported that another demonstration opposing the ban occurred outside the United States consulate in Edinburgh.^4,6