"Palestine Action" Wins: UK Ban on Activists Ruled Unlawful

The ruling marks a judicial constraint on the United Kingdom’s use of counter-terrorism powers against domestic protest movements, narrowing the threshold between criminal damage and terrorism designation.

The High Court in United Kingdom determined the government acted unlawfully when it proscribed “Palestine Action” as a terrorist organization. Yet the judges allowed the ban to remain temporarily while ministers prepare an appeal to the Court of Appeal, with a hearing scheduled for February 20.

A monumental victory both for our fundamental freedoms here in Britain and in the struggle for freedom for the Palestinian people.

Co-founder Huda Ammori

UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood responded: “I am disappointed by the court’s decision and disagree with the notion that banning this terrorist organisation is disproportionate.”

Supporters gathered outside the Royal Courts of Justice when the decision was delivered. The appeal process could last months or years, according to reporting from the courthouse.

Legal Threshold: Crime vs Terror

UK Judge Victoria Sharp found the state interfered with freedom of speech and assembly and used disproportionate means. The court accepted the group encouraged criminal acts but said those could be prosecuted individually rather than through a blanket terrorism designation. Membership or support remains a criminal offence pending appeal.

The designation had placed the group alongside organizations such as al-Qaeda and ISIS under UK law.

The government first announced the ban in June of the previous year. Human rights groups argued it blurred the line between vandalism and terrorism.

"Silent Protest, Terror Charge"

According to campaigners, 2,787 people were arrested for terrorism offences during silent vigils holding signs supporting the group. Some face sentences of up to 14 years.

Greta Thunberg, the Swedish climate activist, was also detained in London in December after holding a sign reading: “I support the Palestine Action prisoners. I oppose genocide.”

Corporate Targeting and Direct Action

The group’s campaign focused heavily on facilities linked to Elbit Systems. On September 7, 2025, its UK subsidiary closed its Bristol site after blockades, roof occupations, smashed windows and paint attacks. Ammori argued the ban was driven by financial damage to the company rather than security risk.

Government Authority Tested

The court stated alternative criminal statutes were available to prosecute property damage without invoking terrorism law.

The judgment arrives amid sustained mass demonstrations in Britain over the Gaza war and widening divergence between public protest and government policy.

Ministers have pledged to continue the case. Ammori warned any appeal would be “profoundly unjust,” arguing charges against detained activists should rather be withdrawn.