By Basant El-Faramawy
Dozens of protesters were arrested on Saturday as hundreds gathered outside the US embassy in London for a demonstration organized by Palestine Action, a group proscribed under the Terrorism Act.
Police warn of arrests for supporting proscribed group
The Metropolitan Police said 48 people had been arrested by mid-afternoon and officers continued to make arrests. Police had warned beforehand that anyone expressing support for the group would face arrest, as supporting a proscribed organization is an offence under the Terrorism Act following its proscription in June 2025, a decision upheld by the Court of Appeal in June 2026.
Hundreds gather despite dispersal order
A Section 35 dispersal order was in place across parts of central London from 8am to 11pm, allowing police to order people to leave the area. Around 400 protesters were expected at the event on Nine Elms Lane in Wandsworth, which began at 1pm.
Commander Slonecki defends robust policing
Commander Adam Slonecki, leading the policing operation, said attendees knew supporting a proscribed organization was unlawful and were "essentially meeting to purposefully commit a crime." He emphasized the operation was not about preventing free expression but about acting against criminality.
Protesters hold signs opposing genocide
Protesters carried Palestinian flags and placards reading "I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action." The group Defend Our Juries said demonstrators would hold signs with that message.
Slonecki added that the protest diverted significant police resources from local communities and urged anyone planning to attend to reconsider.
