Home secretary defends Palestine Action arrests: ‘More than a regular protest group’

WorldPolitics
17 Aug 2025 • 5:06 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has defended the proscription of Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation, stating it is more than a regular protest group.
  • Ms Cooper argued that Palestine Action has engaged in an escalating campaign of violent criminality, distinct from lawful protest.
  • She cited counterterrorism intelligence indicating the group met the criteria for proscription under the 2000 Terrorism Act, with disturbing information about future attacks.
  • The Metropolitan Police reported over 700 arrests since Palestine Action was banned on 5 July, with 60 more people to be prosecuted for supporting the group.
  • The first three charges in England and Wales under the Terrorism Act relating to Palestine Action have been confirmed, with more prosecutions anticipated.

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