High Court Judges Rule UK Ban on Palestine Action Unlawful
In a landmark decision, three High Court judges have ruled that the UK government's ban on the protest group Palestine Action is unlawful. The ruling overturns the home secretary's decision to proscribe the group under anti-terrorism laws, which had categorised it alongside organisations such as Islamic State.
Legal Challenge by Co-founder Huda Ammori
The legal challenge was brought by Huda Ammori, a co-founder of Palestine Action, following a trial at the High Court in London that concluded in December. Part of the proceedings were held in secret, adding to the controversy surrounding the case. The judges, led by Dame Victoria Sharp, president of the king's bench division, delivered their verdict on Friday, declaring the proscription unlawful.
From 5 July last year, being a member of or showing support for Palestine Action became an offence punishable by up to 14 years in prison. This marked the first time a direct action protest group had been banned in such a manner, sparking widespread condemnation and a civil disobedience campaign. During this campaign, more than 2,000 people were arrested for defying the ban.
The ruling highlights significant legal and civil liberties issues, as it challenges the government's use of anti-terrorism measures against protest organisations. The decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for how similar groups are treated under UK law in the future.
Protesters had gathered outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London in July ahead of a hearing on the Palestine Action ban, underscoring the public interest and tension surrounding the case. The High Court's judgment now sets a precedent that could influence future proscription cases and protect the rights of activist groups.
