<article> <h1>139 Arrested at London Protest Against Palestine Action Ban</h1> <p><strong>By NGN News English | November 1, 2026</strong></p> <p>LONDON — British police arrested 139 people during a major demonstration outside the United States Embassy in London on Saturday, October 31, as hundreds gathered to protest the government's ban on the pro-Palestinian activist group Palestine Action.</p> <p>The demonstration took place in the Nine Elms area of south London, where protesters displayed signs reading, "I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action." Many participants also carried Palestinian flags and chanted slogans as police officers moved through the crowd and detained demonstrators.</p> <p>London's Metropolitan Police initially reported 48 arrests during the afternoon. However, the number later increased to 139 as officers continued their operation. Police said the majority of arrests were related to expressing support for a proscribed organisation under British counterterrorism legislation.</p> <p>The British government proscribed Palestine Action in June 2025 under the Terrorism Act 2000. The designation makes membership of, or expressing support for, the organisation a criminal offence. The maximum penalty for certain offences under the legislation can reach 14 years in prison.</p> <p>The decision has generated considerable controversy, with civil liberties campaigners and supporters arguing that the restrictions interfere with freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest. The government, however, has defended the designation, citing the group's activities and the legal basis for its proscription.</p> <p>The protest was organised by the campaign group Defend Our Juries. Organisers estimated that approximately 400 people attended the London demonstration. They have criticised the government's decision and called for the ban to be reversed.</p> <p>A separate demonstration was also held outside the US Consulate in Edinburgh, Scotland. Police Scotland reported no arrests at that event but said officers were reviewing evidence relating to people displaying signs and clothing expressing support for Palestine Action.</p> <p>The demonstrations came just days before a scheduled Supreme Court appeal on November 4 concerning the group's proscription. The legal challenge has become a major focus for campaigners seeking to overturn the government's decision.</p> <p>The dispute highlights growing tensions in Britain over the limits of protest, national security legislation and freedom of expression. The upcoming court proceedings could become an important moment in the continuing legal and political debate surrounding Palestine Action.</p> </article>
