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Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has issued a stark warning ahead of a planned protest in support of Palestine Action, describing the group as an “organised extremist criminal group” whose proscription as a terrorist organisation is actively being considered.
The statement follows a series of serious criminal allegations involving Palestine Action members, including the use of sledgehammers against police, breaking into military facilities, and causing millions of pounds in damage.
“This is an organised extremist criminal group,” said Sir Mark. “Members are alleged to have caused millions of pounds of criminal damage, assaulted a police officer, and claimed responsibility for breaking into an airbase.”
Despite the lack of legal authority to prevent tomorrow’s demonstration from taking place, Commissioner Rowley confirmed that police will use available powers to impose conditions on the protest in order to prevent disruption to Parliament, the wider Westminster area, and the public.
“Until then, we have no power in law to prevent tomorrow’s protest taking place,” he said. “We do, however, have the power to impose conditions on it to prevent disorder, damage, and serious disruption to the community.”
The Met has also outlined the operational case for the government to consider officially banning Palestine Action under terrorism legislation. If that proposal is accepted, those continuing to act in the group’s name or show support could face criminal prosecution.
Rowley acknowledged public frustration over the protest and stressed that while the right to protest is protected, actions that support a proscribed group cannot be tolerated.
“The right to protest is essential and we will always defend it, but actions in support of such a group go beyond what most would see as legitimate protest.”
He concluded with a warning: “Breaches of the law will be dealt with robustly.”
Context and Background
Palestine Action has been at the centre of several high-profile protests and direct action campaigns, including targeting buildings associated with arms manufacturers. While the group has drawn attention to international human rights concerns, its methods—frequently involving criminal damage—have triggered debate over the limits of lawful protest.
The Home Office has yet to comment on the potential proscription but is expected to review the operational case presented by the Metropolitan Police.
