Key facts
- Faber cannot pass on UK earnings to Sally Rooney for her work.
UK book ban on author Sally Rooney over Palestine Action support sparks criticism
IN SHORT
Irish author Sally Rooney can no longer sell her books in the UK due to her support for the activist group Palestine Action, her publisher Faber announced Wednesday. The decision follows the UK government's proscription of Palestine Action as a terrorist organization in July 2025. Rooney stated that fulfilling publication contracts could now be a criminal offense.
Key Numbers
July 2025Palestine Action proscribed as terrorist organization
Who's Involved
Sally Rooney
author whose books can no longer be sold in the UK
Faber
publisher that will no longer supply Rooney's works in the UK
Palestine Action
activist group banned as a terrorist organization in the UK
Huda Ammori
cofounder of Palestine Action appealing the ban
Baroness Jacqui Smith
Minister of State for Skills lecturing on responsibility
↳ Why This Matters
The decision to ban author Sally Rooney's books in the UK over her support for Palestine Action raises questions about freedom of expression and the potential criminalization of dissent. The move impacts Rooney's ability to receive earnings for her work in the UK and has drawn criticism from rights groups.