Key facts
- The UK Court of Appeal ruled the ban on Palestine Action under anti-terrorism laws lawful.
- This decision overturns a February High Court ruling that had found the ban unlawful.
- The ban makes membership in or support for Palestine Action a criminal offense.
- Those found guilty face a maximum of 14 years in prison.
- Over 3,000 arrests occurred during a civil disobedience campaign against the ban.
The UK Court of Appeal has ruled that the ban on the pro-Palestinian group Palestine Action under anti-terrorism laws is lawful, overturning a previous High Court decision. The ban makes membership of or support for the group a criminal offense punishable by up to 14 years in prison. The High Court had found the ban unlawful in February, following a legal challenge brought by the group's co-founder, Huda Ammori. The Home Office appealed this decision. A five-judge panel, including Lady Chief Justice Sue Carr, delivered the ruling. The decision means over 3,000 individuals arrested during a civil disobedience campaign against the ban could now face prosecution. Protesters arrested for allegedly supporting Palestine Action expressed anger at the ruling, with some describing it as "devastating and shocking" and a "travesty of justice." Huda Ammori stated she will appeal to the Supreme Court.