UPDATE: Protests supporting Palestine Action unfolded in Belfast and Londonderry this afternoon, with no arrests reported, contrasting sharply with a simultaneous demonstration in London where over 90 activists were detained. The Defend Our Juries group organized these events, emphasizing their opposition to the proscription of Palestine Action as a terrorist organization.
The gathering in Belfast commenced at 1 PM near the city’s main court buildings, attracting around 60-80 activists. Many displayed placards reading, “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action.” Observers noted a low-key presence from PSNI officers who monitored the protest from a distance without intervening.
In stark contrast, the demonstration in London’s Tavistock Square Gardens resulted in widespread arrests, highlighting a significant discrepancy in police responses. Rosemary Jenkinson, an activist in Belfast, highlighted this difference, stating, “It shows that this whole thing of arresting people is completely arbitrary.” She expressed confidence in the upcoming judicial review that could overturn the proscription, asserting, “We know we have a very good chance of overturning it.”
The protests come just days before the legal challenge against the UK Government’s classification of Palestine Action as a terrorist organization is set to be heard. Patrick Corrigan, Amnesty International’s programme director in Northern Ireland, observed the Belfast protest and described the potential proscription as “absurd.” He noted the PSNI’s restrained approach, contrasting sharply with mass arrests seen in London and other cities.
As of now, over 2,100 people have been arrested nationwide since July, reflecting escalating public discontent regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Veteran civil rights campaigner Eamonn McCann voiced his dismay at the need for protests so many years after the civil rights movement, stating, “We are delighted that two generations on, so many young people are joining us on the same streets to stand up for Palestine and for Palestine Action.”
With the judicial review looming, the atmosphere remains tense, and activists are poised to continue their demonstrations. The contrasting police responses between Northern Ireland and London raise critical questions about civil liberties and the right to protest.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
