UK Moves Forward with Terrorism Designation for Palestine Action
A decision will soon take effect, labeling the direct action group Palestine Action as a terrorist organization in the United Kingdom. This designation follows the High Court’s refusal to grant interim relief to the group, which is now preparing an urgent legal appeal.
For the first time, an organization engaged in direct political protest is set to be classified under the Terrorism Act. Palestine Action will join the ranks of groups such as Islamic State, al-Qaida, and the far-right organization National Action.
Legislative Process and Parliamentary Vote
British lawmakers recently approved measures that classify the pro-Palestinian activist organization as a terrorist group. The draft legislation amending the Terrorism Act 2000 included Palestine Action among three targeted groups. The bill, introduced by the Home Secretary earlier this week, was passed overwhelmingly in the House of Commons with 385 votes in favor and 26 against.
From the start of July 2025, membership in or support for Palestine Action will be considered a criminal offense.
Controversy and International Reaction
Critics argue that the decision may criminalize thousands of people overnight, a concern echoed by the group on social media as it seeks an expedited review of the ruling. United Nations human rights experts have also called for a reversal of the decision, noting that the international legal definition of terrorism requires acts intended to kill, injure seriously, or take hostages. The experts asserted that property damage alone, without the intent to harm individuals, should not be classified as terrorism.
Nevertheless, the British Home Secretary defended the regime change by pointing to actions by the group at military and arms storage facilities. According to her, the nature of these incidents meets the statutory criteria for terrorism, and she emphasized that the government will take all necessary measures to safeguard democracy and national security in the UK.
Background on Palestine Action’s Activities
Palestine Action has become known across the media for its confrontational methods. The organization’s activists have been repeatedly involved in actions against arms manufacturers linked to Israel within the UK. Their demonstrations include unauthorized entries to properties belonging to arms dealers, deliberate damage to property, use of vivid red paint on walls, and the public display of Palestinian flags. These activities have reportedly resulted in millions of pounds in damages.
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