Court rules UKs designation of Palestine Action as terror group unlawful

High Court Ruling Vacates Government Ban on Pro-Palestinian Group

The High Court in the United Kingdom has ruled that a government ban on the pro-Palestinian campaign group Palestine Action was unlawful. Huda Ammori, co-founder of the group, stated that the ruling was a significant victory for fundamental freedoms in Britain and the struggle for freedom for the Palestinian people.

In June last year, the UK government announced plans to ban Palestine Action under anti-terrorism laws, classifying the organization as a terrorist group alongside armed groups such as al-Qaeda and ISIL (ISIS). This move prompted widespread criticism from human rights organizations and led to protests. Over 2,787 people were arrested for supporting the group, with many facing terrorism offenses for peacefully holding signs in silent vigils across the UK.

The government has since announced its intention to appeal the court’s ruling, with Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood stating that she is “disappointed” by the decision and disagrees with the notion that banning the organization was disproportionate. Defend Our Juries, a group supporting Palestine Action, welcomed the ruling, saying it marked a significant victory for free speech and direct action.

Supporters of the group, including artist Nicola Moxham, expressed jubilation at the court’s decision, describing it as a “vindication” and an “absolute triumph for direct action in support of Palestine Action”. The ruling has sparked scenes of celebration outside the court in London, with chants of “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” echoing through the air.

Source: Al Jazeera