London: In a significant legal development, the British High Court has ruled in favor of the pro-Palestinian activist group Palestine Action, declaring the government’s ban on the organization unlawful.
According to international media reports, the UK government had previously imposed restrictions on Palestine Action, prompting the group to challenge the decision in court. After lengthy proceedings, a three-member bench delivered its verdict, stating that the ban was not legally justified.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Victoria Sharp said that the group’s activities carried “little to no indication” of terrorism. The court further held that the government’s decision to proscribe the organization violated fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly.
The court indicated that it would issue a formal order to quash the Home Secretary’s decision. However, it clarified that the government retains the right to appeal, and until the legal process is completed, the ban will technically remain in place.
Reacting to the ruling, the UK Home Secretary expressed disappointment and confirmed that she would appeal the decision. She maintained that the ban had been imposed following a comprehensive and evidence-based review process, which was also approved by Parliament.
Following the verdict, activists waving Palestinian flags and wearing keffiyeh scarves celebrated outside the court, chanting slogans and congratulating one another.
It is worth noting that in July, the British government had added Palestine Action to the list of proscribed organizations that includes Hamas and Hezbollah. Membership in or support for the group — including participation in its demonstrations — had been classified as a serious criminal offense, punishable by up to 14 years in prison.