Almost 50 arrested at protest against Palestine Action ban outside US embassy in London

Police warn protesters

The Metropolitan police said before the gathering that the event would be subject to a strong policing operation. They warned that people organizing it, directing others or providing logistical help could be committing an offence.

Commander Adam Slonecki, who led the operation, said attendees knew that support for a proscribed group was unlawful. He described the gathering as one where people were meeting with the intention of committing a crime.

Protesters explain their views

Sue Morhall, a 79-year-old retiree, sat outside the US embassy with a sign that appeared to support Palestine Action. She said she wanted world leaders, including Donald Trump, to understand public opposition to events in Gaza.

Morhall said she hoped Burnham might reverse the proscription, though she acknowledged that outcome seemed unlikely. She also called it a shame that people seeking to stop genocide were being arrested.

The Rev Bill White, 72, held a sign opposing genocide and supporting Palestine Action. He said he was appalled by Britain’s role and its supply of weapons used against Palestinians, and said he had left the Labour party after the group was proscribed.

Wider response and context

A Defend Our Juries spokesperson criticized the police response, saying it reflected efforts to appease US interests. The spokesperson also said US approval enabled Israeli war crimes that had caused deaths and injuries to thousands.