London, United Kingdom – The Metropolitan Police have begun arresting more than 500 people gathered in Trafalgar Square who were defying the UK Government’s proscription of the direct action group Palestine Action.

Those taking part are involved in a silent protest, holding handwritten paper signs that read: “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action”. Arrests are being carried out despite a High Court ruling that found the ban unlawful, with lawyers also warning that any arrests would be unlawful.

An estimated 1,500 supporters also assembled in the area, protesting UK Government involvement in Israel’s actions in Gaza and what they describe as a crackdown on peaceful protest within the country.

The demonstration, called “Everyone Day” by organisers Defend Our Juries, continues a series of similar vigils since July 2025. During these events, 2,807 people have been arrested under the Terrorism Act 2000 for sitting in silence and holding similar signs. The campaign to Lift the Ban on Palestine Action has been described as “the most widespread mass civil disobedience in modern UK history”.

Raj Chada, Head of Criminal Defence at Hodge Jones and Allen, said: “The most common terrorist in the UK at present is a pensioner at a silent vigil holding a placard. That should be a matter of shame for the UK authorities.”

Despite the High Court ruling in February that the ban was unlawful and disproportionate, arrests are continuing following a Metropolitan Police change in position. The force had previously stated it would not arrest people after the ruling, but later reversed that stance following an earlier arrest at a peaceful march. The reason for the change has not been clearly explained beyond correspondence from organisers.

Middle East Eye reported that an RAF drone flew over Baalbek, Lebanon, before and after strikes that killed 18 people and injured 28. The drone was launched from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, which is also used for surveillance flights over Gaza. Declassified UK reported that UK airbases are being used as “principle forward operating bases” for US bomber operations linked to strikes on Iran.

The High Court ruling on the ban has not yet taken effect as an appeal is scheduled for April 28–29, 2026.

A spokesperson for Defend Our Juries said the situation reflects refusal to accept the ruling, inconsistent policing decisions, and “a troubling disregard for the rule of law,” calling the arrests further evidence of this.

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