Pro-Palestinian campaign group Palestine Action launched a legal challenge Monday against the UK government's attempt to proscribe it as a terrorist organization under the Terrorism Act 2000. The move came hours after Home Secretary Yvette Cooper presented a draft order to Parliament that would criminalize membership or support for the group, punishable by up to 14 years in prison. The High Court granted an urgent hearing Friday to consider blocking the ban pending a judicial review.
Legal Battle Timeline
Co-founder Huda Ammori secured a temporary lifeline when Justice Chamberlain scheduled Friday’s hearing to decide on suspending the proscription. If successful, this would freeze the ban until a July 21 hearing determines whether Palestine Action can pursue a full judicial review. Ammori condemned the government for “steamrolling” the process without parliamentary scrutiny or input from human rights groups.
Government’s Justification
Cooper announced the ban after Palestine Action activists vandalized two Airbus Voyager aircraft at RAF Brize Norton on June 20, causing millions in damages. She cited the group’s “long history of unacceptable criminal damage,” including attacks on defense sites linked to Israel’s Elbit Systems and a 2022 Glasgow factory raid damaging submarine parts. The Home Office claims the group’s tactics, documented in its “Underground Manual” show “willingness to use violence”.
Civil Society Backlash
Amnesty International, Liberty, and the European Legal Support Centre submitted statements supporting Palestine Action, warning the ban misuses anti-terror laws to criminalize dissent. Amnesty’s Sacha Deshmukh called it an “unlawful interference” with freedoms of speech and assembly. An open letter signed by artists including Brian Eno and Tilda Swinton declared: “Palestine Action is intervening to stop a genocide”.
Free Speech Implications
Palestine Action argues its tactics which includes occupying buildings, spraying red paint on warplanes aim to disrupt companies “profiting from Palestinian oppression.” Ammori stressed: “Causing disruption is not terrorism.” Legal experts warn proscription would set a precedent allowing the state to criminalize any direct action. The group’s fundraiser for legal fees surpassed £150,000 within days, reflecting public alarm over civil liberties.