Met warns against expressing support for Palestine Action near Westminster court
Group’s proscription makes support a criminal offence
Supporters of Palestine Action are facing the risk of arrest as the Metropolitan Police prepares to deploy officers around Westminster Magistrates’ Court this Thursday.
The warning comes in advance of a mass show of support planned by activist group Defend Our Juries for Palestine Action, which was proscribed under the Terrorism Act in 2025.
The decision to proscribe Palestine Action was sustained by the Court of Appeal in June 2026, and supporting the group is now considered a criminal offence.
In previous events organised by Defend Our Juries, participants have faced thousands of arrests for holding placards expressing support for Palestine Action.
This time, the group plans for supporters to verbally express support on a stage outside the court.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine emphasised that expressing support for proscribed groups is a criminal act, and urged individuals to reconsider participating in such events.
While no proceedings related to Palestine Action are occurring at the court on the planned day of protest, police warn that attendance and actions in support could lead to legal repercussions.
Officers are empowered to enforce the removal of face coverings from people under Section 60AA Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, in effect between 08:00 to 20:00 in the specified area.