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Joe Pike, a political and investigations correspondent, spoke to a member of Palestine Action who expressed disbelief at the government’s plan to proscribe the group, effectively labeling it as a terrorist organization. Saeed Taji Farouky emphasized that such a move would undermine British democracy and the rule of law, warning that it should concern everyone. The home secretary is reportedly preparing a written statement to present to Parliament regarding this issue on Monday.
In response to the incident where Palestine Action activists vandalized RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, painting two planes with red paint, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the act as disgraceful. Farouky, who admitted to a past conviction related to a different protest, criticized the rush to proscription as a knee-jerk reaction. He highlighted that attempts to classify Palestine Action as a threat had never deterred them, emphasizing the group’s mission to disrupt the supply chain linked to genocide.
The group’s focus on undermining the material support for what they perceive as genocide in Gaza led them to target RAF Brize Norton, a key hub for UK air transport and refueling operations. The activists’ actions prompted a security review at military bases nationwide. Despite strong denials of genocide by Israel, Palestine Action remains steadfast in its campaign, viewing direct action as necessary when governmental obligations are not met. While reactions to the incident varied among political leaders, human rights organizations voiced concerns about the use of counter-terrorism measures against protesters.
Continuing their anti-arms industry activism during the conflict in Gaza, Palestine Action has escalated tactics like vandalizing planes, including a US military aircraft in Ireland. Criticism of the group’s actions has been met with support from some quarters, with the independent reviewer of terrorism legislation labeling their activities as a form of blackmail. Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman endorsed the decision to ban the group, stressing the importance of zero tolerance for terrorism. The process of proscribing an organization under the Terrorism Act involves legislative steps that require parliamentary approval, with the UK currently listing 81 groups as terrorist organizations
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