United Kingdom: justice called to rule on ban on Palestine Action

The High Court in London is due to deliver a long-awaited decision on Monday concerning the banning of the pro-Palestinian organization Palestine Action, at the end of a legal standoff between the activist group and the British government.

Entering into force on July 5, 2025, this ban classified Palestine Action among the organizations proscribed in the United Kingdom, alongside Hamas and Hezbollah. Under British anti-terrorism legislation, membership in the movement or simply providing support to it is now punishable by penalties of up to 14 years in prison.

The judgment will have to determine whether the government acted within its prerogatives or whether it exceeded its powers by assimilating the group to a terrorist organization.

Since the measure came into force, nearly 3,000 people have been arrested during demonstrations or actions in support of Palestine Action, illustrating the extent of the controversy.

The issue goes far beyond the case of this single organization. Critics of the ban accuse the British authorities of excessively broadening the definition of terrorism to the detriment of freedom of expression and political activism.

The government rejects these criticisms. British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper defended the decision, saying many supporters failed to appreciate “the true nature” of the organization. “It is very important that no one doubts that this is not a non-violent organization,” she said.