US sanctions UK-based Palestine Action as ‘global terrorist’, widening Trump crackdown on far-left groups

On Wednesday, the United States designated the UK-based Palestine Action group as a terrorist organization, intensifying its campaign against left-wing movements. Established in 2020, Palestine Action is currently appealing the UK government's ban, which has resulted in numerous arrests. Rights groups have criticized the ban, arguing it aims to criminalize dissent.

The group's stated goal is to end global participation in Israel's genocidal and apartheid regime. Palestine Action gained prominence following Israel's military campaign in Gaza following Hamas's attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. This move follows a broader trend of US President Donald Trump's administration labeling far-left groups as terrorist organizations.

The US State Department labeled Palestine Action as a "violent far-left terrorist group," alongside Italy-based Autistici/Inventati and the pro-Palestinian group Masar Badil. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described Autistici/Inventati as a major far-left tech collective utilized by the most active and violent Antifa cells in the US and worldwide.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Washington would utilize all economic tools to cut the financial support of far-left groups until they are eliminated. Palestine Action's co-founder, Huda Ammori, condemned the UK ban and US terror designation, stating it should be a wake-up call for those concerned about free speech and civil liberties.

Palestine Action's activities have consistently aimed to save lives by disrupting the Israeli war machine, which is committing genocide in Gaza with US government support. Israel welcomed the decision, emphasizing that terrorist organizations exploit Western civil society, use political and humanitarian pretenses to mask violent operations, radicalize youth, and channel illicit funding.

Amnesty International similarly criticized the crackdowns on dissent led by the leaders of the United States, Israel, and Russia.