Palestine Action Wins Right to Challenge Terror Ban as Court Rules Against Government Appeal
The Court of Appeal has ruled that Palestine Action retains the right to contest its ban under anti-terror laws. This decision follows the Home Office’s unsuccessful appeal against a prior judicial review. The government initially proscribed the group in July, making it illegal to support or associate with them after a series of disruptive events, including a break-in at an RAF base.
Government’s Appeal and Judicial Review
The Home Office’s appeal emerged after a court had allowed Palestine Action’s co-founder to pursue a judicial review. The court found that the ban significantly infringed on freedoms of speech and assembly. Furthermore, it indicated that the government should have engaged with the group prior to implementing the ban.
Significant Arrests at Protests
- Nearly 900 supporters were arrested during a major protest in London last month.
- Since the ban’s enactment, approximately 2,000 arrests have occurred.
- A protest early this month led to another 492 arrests.
Response from Palestine Action
Palestine Action described the Court of Appeal’s ruling as a “landmark victory.” Co-founder Huda Ammori emphasized the ban’s “absurdly authoritarian” nature, calling it one of the most severe attacks on civil liberties in recent British history. She criticized the use of the Terrorism Act to arrest peaceful protesters, labeling it a waste of public resources.
Vandalism and Protests
The group has faced scrutiny for its actions, which include vandalizing aircraft at RAF Brize Norton. This incident, which involved activists using electric scooters, spurred a security review of defense sites across the UK.
Palestine Action’s supporters have participated in numerous protests throughout the country. These demonstrations have occasionally turned violent, with past incidents including vandalism of Barclays branches and confrontations at a defense technology firm in Bristol.
Ongoing Challenges
The judicial review scheduled for November 25 will provide an opportunity for Palestine Action to further contest the ban. Following the ruling, co-founder Huda Ammori has been granted permission to appeal on two additional grounds as well. The atmosphere surrounding the group remains charged, with ongoing protests drawing significant attention and leading to heavy law enforcement responses.
