Counter Terrorism Police have confirmed that 221 arrests have been made since the UK Government formally proscribed the protest group Palestine Action on 5 July 2025 under terrorism legislation.
According to a statement issued on 7 August, ten individuals have been charged so far, with investigations ongoing across multiple police forces.
Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Prevent and Pursue at CTP, said:
“In the month since the proscription of Palestine Action came into effect, police forces working with CTP have made a substantial number of arrests.”
“Our role is to enforce the law where we suspect offences to have been committed and we will continue to do so, without fear or favour.”
The Home Office designated Palestine Action a proscribed terrorist organisation last month, citing its continued targeting of defence industry sites and allegations of threatening behaviour. The group has rejected the designation, framing it as a crackdown on legitimate protest.
CTP stressed that the legislation does not interfere with the right to protest in support of the Palestinian cause more broadly. “At this time, it remains illegal to be a member of or encourage support for the group Palestine Action,” Evans said. “This legislation is specific to that group.”
With further protests expected in major cities including London, operational plans are in place to both safeguard lawful protest and address any suspected criminal activity.
Since 5 July, UK police have made:
- 1 arrest under Section 11 of the Terrorism Act 2000 (membership of a proscribed organisation)
- 58 arrests under Section 12 (inviting or recklessly expressing support for a proscribed group, or arranging meetings)
- 162 arrests under Section 13 or 13A (wearing or displaying articles in public, or publishing images associated with a proscribed organisation)
The arrest figures include cases in England, Scotland, and Wales. No further breakdown of the data has been provided.
