UPDATE: Protests supporting Palestine Action wrapped up peacefully in Belfast and Derry on Saturday afternoon, with no arrests reported by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI). This contrasts sharply with a similar demonstration in London, where authorities detained at least 90 individuals amid rising tensions over the proscription of Palestine Action as a terrorist organization.
The protests, organized by Defend Our Juries, attracted a crowd of approximately 60-80 activists in Belfast at around 1 PM, many of whom displayed placards bearing the message: “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action.” PSNI officers maintained a low-key presence, observing the event from a distance without intervening. The demonstration concluded shortly after 2 PM.
This peaceful assembly occurs ahead of a critical legal challenge next week against the UK government’s move to classify Palestine Action as a terrorist group. In contrast, the London protest saw widespread arrests, highlighting the divide in law enforcement responses. “It shows that this whole thing of arresting people is completely arbitrary,” stated activist Rosemary Jenkinson, who addressed the crowd in Belfast.
The disparity in police actions between Northern Ireland and London raises questions about the handling of protests nationwide. Amnesty International’s Patrick Corrigan, who attended the Belfast protest in an observational role, criticized the government’s stance, calling the legal proscription of Palestine Action “absurd.” Corrigan noted the significant contrast in police approaches, emphasizing the ongoing public disquiet regarding the treatment of protestors.
Veteran civil rights campaigner Eamonn McCann expressed his concerns over the need for continued civil rights demonstrations, stating, “We veterans are horrified that we have to come out again to demonstrate for civil rights.” This sentiment resonates with many, as activists across generations unite on the streets to voice their support for Palestinian rights.
As the situation develops, observers will be keenly watching the upcoming judicial review regarding the proscription of Palestine Action. The protests reflect a growing wave of civil disobedience, with over 2,100 arrests reported since July, underscoring the heightening public outcry against the ongoing situation in Gaza.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds and the legal challenge approaches. The outcomes could significantly impact the future of protest rights in the UK and the ongoing discourse surrounding Palestine Action.
