Pro-Palestinian protesters arrested outside U.S. Embassy in London

Dozens of individuals were apprehended during a protest near the U.S. Embassy in London on Saturday, according to the Metropolitan Police. The majority of the arrests were made against those advocating for a proscribed organization. Police stated that 48 people were taken into custody, with many displaying signs that read "I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action" and chanting "free, free Palestine" as they were escorted away.

Over 100 protesters participated in the demonstration, with some applauding as the arrests were made. The U.K. government classified the protest group, Palestine Action, as a terrorist organization last year, making membership or support a crime punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Demonstrators also organized a vigil in Edinburgh, Scotland, outside the U.S. Consulate, holding banners similar to those seen in London.

While no arrests were reported there, Police Scotland noted that inquiries are ongoing to identify individuals seen wearing T-shirts and banners supporting a proscribed organization. Evidence is being reviewed, and further actions will be taken as deemed appropriate.

The protests occurred prior to a Supreme Court appeal scheduled for November 4 against Palestine Action's designation as a terror group. Supporters argue that the ban is excessive and infringes upon their freedom of speech. In August, the U.S. government sanctioned Palestine Action, labeling it as a terror group. Founded in 2020, Palestine Action aims to halt U.K. military support for Israel, which it claims is committing genocide against Palestinians—a claim strongly denied by Israel.

The group seeks to stop genocide by disrupting corporate entities that enable the Israeli military-industrial complex. In 2024, activists broke into an Israeli weapons manufacturer's factory, damaging equipment. In June 2025, they targeted a Royal Air Force base, causing damage with crowbars.