The High Court has ruled that the UK government acted unlawfully in banning activist group Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation, citing a disproportionate interference with rights to free speech and assembly.
However, the proscription will remain in force while the government considers an appeal.
In its judgment, the court found that the group’s activities did not meet the «level, scale and persistence» required under terrorism legislation. Judges noted that only a limited number of incidents could potentially qualify as terrorism, making a full ban excessive.
The government swiftly defended its position. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the decision to proscribe the group was evidence-based and backed by Parliament, arguing that Palestine Action had engaged in serious criminal damage and acts amounting to terrorism. Officials confirmed plans to challenge the ruling in the Court of Appeal.
Since the ban was introduced in July 2025, nearly 3,000 people have been arrested for alleged support of the group, including individuals holding placards. Under UK law, membership or public backing of a proscribed organisation can carry a prison sentence of up to 14 years. Campaigners are now calling for charges to be dropped in light of the judgment.
The ban followed high-profile incidents, including activists breaching RAF Brize Norton and damaging military aircraft, as well as sustained protests targeting Israeli arms manufacturer Elbit Systems UK. The case has also drawn criticism from human rights organisations and UN officials, who described the measure as disproportionate.
The Home Office has reportedly spent close to £700,000 defending the ban in court, with policing costs linked to related protests estimated at £3.6 mln.
Further hearings are expected as the government prepares its appeal.
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