London police arrested 466 demonstrators in protests supporting the Palestinian Actions, classified as a "terrorist organization" by the British government. The arrests occurred during a rally criticized for restricting freedom of speech and protest rights amid ongoing tensions related to the Israel-Gaza conflict. Videos showed police removing protesters who held signs opposing genocide and supporting Palestinian actions.
Critics, including over 350 academics, have expressed concerns about the government’s ban, arguing it undermines democratic rights. Amnesty International condemned the police’s actions as violating international obligations to protect freedom of expression.
Demonstrators, including grandmother Mange Mansfield, voiced their opposition to the government’s crackdown, asserting that such actions undermine British values. Protests have intensified since the ban came into effect in July, leading to more than 200 arrests nationwide.
The Palestinian Actions group claims their activities aim to highlight alleged Israeli war crimes, particularly after a protest incident at a military air base this summer. The situation continues to spark debate regarding civil liberties in the UK.
