London police took extensive actions against pro-Palestinian protesters who organized a series of provocative protests in the British capital. Hours after officially declaring Palestine Action a terrorist organization, activists caused significant disruptions to public order.
Around 20 protesters were detained in front of the parliament building while protesting the British government's decision. They carried provocative signs with slogans like "I Oppose Genocide" and chanted slogans in support of the Palestinian cause.
Parallel to these events, five activists from another organization - Youth Demand, caused serious disruptions during the traditional Pride parade. They blocked traffic by chaining themselves to a CISCO technology company truck and doused it with red paint, claiming the company supports military operations.
The dramatic events were the result of officially classifying Palestine Action as a terrorist organization - a decision supported by the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The new legal provisions provide for serious penalties - up to 14 years in prison - for membership or support of the organization.
Among those detained were activists who openly criticized British authorities, calling them "puppets of the Zionist state". One of the detained women continued to chant slogans about freedom and the rights of the Palestinian people even during her arrest.
The CISCO incident was particularly telling - Youth Demand activists accused the company of providing communication technologies that they claim facilitate "mass killings of Palestinians".
Police actions were extremely decisive. Officers quickly and effectively stopped the protests using standard procedures for controlling public disturbances. Protesters were quickly removed from the protest site, with some being handcuffed.
This day clearly showed the growing political tension around the Palestinian issue in the United Kingdom and the authorities' readiness to take firm measures against actions they define as a threat to public order.
The events sparked widespread public response and discussions about the boundaries of protest activities, freedom of expression, and international policy regarding the conflict in the Middle East.