The Metropolitan Police condemned "intolerable" violence against officers during a Saturday protest in Parliament Square, where over 425 arrests were made for supporting the proscribed Palestine Action group. Demonstrators, opposing the UK's July ban under the Terrorism Act, carried signs like "I oppose genocide; I support Palestine Action" amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

Most arrests involved backing a terrorist-designated organisation, punishable by up to 14 years, with additional charges for assaults and public order offences. Palestine Action, known for disrupting firms tied to Israel's arms sector, was proscribed by former Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Claire Smart highlighted that officers were punched, kicked, spat on, and hit with objects while performing duties. "This abuse is unacceptable and diverts resources from communities," she said. Over 2,500 officers managed multiple protests across London, including a peaceful 20,000-strong Palestine Coalition march with minimal arrests.

The Defend Our Juries rally, however, turned volatile with coordinated efforts to obstruct police, leading to more than 25 arrests for assaults. A spokesperson called the event "peaceful" and urged new Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to lift the ban, dismissing police claims as "astonishing". Police vowed full legal pursuit of those responsible.

Also Read: Three Accused in Andhra Rs 3,200-Cr Liquor Scam Released on Bail

In Edinburgh, Police Scotland arrested two at a similar demonstration. These events underscore debates over free speech versus counter-terrorism laws in the UK, as solidarity actions for Palestine intensify amid calls for accountability in the Middle East crisis.

Also Read: Excavation at Sri Lanka’s Chemmani Mass Grave Paused Over Funding