More than 500 people were arrested during a pro-Palestine protest in London, as demonstrators gathered in support of the activist group Palestine Action.
Read More: Palestine action takes UK govt to court over terror ban
According to international media reports, the protest took place at Trafalgar Square, where a sit-in style demonstration was held. Police moved in to disperse the crowd, removing activists from the area while other demonstrators continued clapping and chanting slogans in solidarity.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a total of 523 individuals, aged between 18 and 87, were taken into custody. Authorities said the arrests were carried out under counter-terrorism legislation, citing concerns over the group’s legal status and activities.
UK Govt takes no action against Separatist groups activities on their soil , threatening stability of India .
However London Police has arrested 523 peaceful protesters ( age 18 to 87) demonstrating in Support of Palestine .
This is British Janus faced democracy and so…— Mountain Rats (@mountain_rats) April 12, 2026
pic.twitter.com/qZ6VGczBfV Mass arrests under the Terrorism Act in London yesterday as hundreds defy the ban on Palestine Action.
The police are knowingly unlawfully arresting peaceful protestors for holding placards which say:
“I oppose genocide – I support Palestine Action”
— Irlandarra (@martinez_j7902) April 12, 2026
Human rights organization Amnesty International criticized the police response, arguing that the crackdown undermines civil liberties and the fundamental right to peaceful protest. The group expressed concern over what it described as disproportionate measures against demonstrators.
Police, however, defended their actions, stating that all procedures were conducted in accordance with the law. Officials emphasized their responsibility to maintain public order and enforce regulations related to banned or restricted organizations.
The controversy stems from the legal status of Palestine Action, which was designated a “terrorist organization” in July, making membership or public support punishable by up to 14 years in prison. However, in mid-February, the High Court of England and Wales overturned the ban, citing concerns over freedom of expression. The government has since filed an appeal against the ruling.
Read More: Mass Pro–Palestinian rallies sweep Australia and Europe
Following the court decision, arrests were temporarily halted, but enforcement resumed in late March. Since the initial ban, nearly 3,000 arrests have been made, with many individuals detained for displaying placards in support of the group.