Ban on Palestine Action as ‘terrorists’ is shameful
Guardian3 days
Protests in London as UK to Ban Palestine Action Under Terrorism Act
Above: Protestors and Metropolitan Police officers in Trafalgar Square, London, June 23, 2025. Image copyright: HENRY NICHOLLS/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Proscribing Palestine Action as terrorists is an absurd and authoritarian act from a government in denial of the complicity in Israeli violence. Spray paint is not terrorism but rather protest against the U.K.'s moral silence. This draconian assault on democratic rights sets a dangerous precedent that criminalizes dissent. If vandalism equals terrorism, the word loses all meaning.
Right narrative
Palestine Action's proscription is justified given their escalating tactics. Breaking into military bases crosses the line from protest to security threat. Their targeting of Jewish businesses, regardless of motives, terrorizes communities and echoes disturbing patterns from history. Democratic societies must distinguish between legitimate dissent and dangerous action.