Jury sent to deliberate in trial of Brighton woman accused of supporting Hamas
Hanin Barghouthi denies expressing support for proscribed group
The jury in the trial of 24-year-old Hanin Barghouthi, accused of expressing support for Hamas, has retired to consider its verdicts.
Barghouthi, a former student, is alleged to have supported the proscribed organisation during a speech at a rally in Brighton on 8th October 2023, just a day after Hamas militants entered Israel.
During proceedings at Kingston Crown Court, jurors viewed footage showing Barghouthi telling the rally's attendees that "yesterday was a victory" and describing it as "beautiful and inspiring to see."
She further stated, "We need to celebrate these acts of resistance because this is a success."
Barghouthi has defended herself in court, explaining that she was unaware of the full details of events on 7th October when she made her speech.
She recounted viewing a social media video that morning showing a digger nearing a wall in Gaza, which she described as a "breakout," believing there was no further news beyond that.
Barghouthi also claimed she was unaware of incidents at the Nova music festival, including hostages and kidnappings.
She maintained to jurors, "I do not support Hamas."
Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove argued that Barghouthi conveyed support for Hamas and its attack during her speech. However, Michael Mansfield KC, representing Barghouthi, stated her comments were not intended to be supportive of the group.
At the time of the rally, Barghouthi was studying sociology and culture at the University of Sussex, and served as co-president of the feminist society. Reports indicate she was elected as women’s officer for the student union, though she did not continue in the role.
Judge Peter Lodder KC directed jurors that "emotion has no part to play in this trial," emphasizing that the case concerns whether the defendant's actions are in violation of domestic law, not political matters.
Barghouthi, who resides in Brighton, has pleaded not guilty to a charge of expressing support for a proscribed organisation, specifically Hamas. The jury began deliberations on Tuesday morning (10/03/2026)