UPDATE: Protests supporting Palestine Action in Belfast and Derry concluded peacefully this afternoon, with no arrests made by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI). This comes as a stark contrast to a similar demonstration in London, where police detained at least 90 activists for displaying messages of solidarity.
Earlier today, around 1 PM, approximately 60-80 activists gathered near the main court buildings in Belfast, brandishing placards with the phrase “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action.” Observing from a distance, PSNI officers maintained a low-key presence throughout the hour-long event, which wrapped up just after 2 PM.
The protests are particularly significant as they precede a crucial legal challenge against the UK government’s move to designate Palestine Action as a terrorist organization. The campaign group, Defend Our Juries, organized the demonstrations in response to what they view as an arbitrary crackdown on dissent.
Activist Rosemary Jenkinson, who spoke at the Belfast event, emphasized the disparity in police responses between Northern Ireland and London. “It shows that this whole thing of arresting people is completely arbitrary,” Jenkinson stated. “This country isn’t doing it because they realize it’s utterly ridiculous.”
Meanwhile, in London, police have escalated their actions against protesters, resulting in over 2,100 arrests since July. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that many of those detained were involved in a demonstration at Tavistock Square Gardens earlier today, which mirrored the sentiments expressed in Northern Ireland.
Amnesty International’s Patrick Corrigan, present at the Belfast demonstration, described the proscription of Palestine Action as “absurd.” He noted the PSNI’s restrained approach today, contrasting sharply with the mass arrests occurring elsewhere: “It’s a marked contrast to what we’ve seen in London and other cities.”
Veteran civil rights activist Eamonn McCann, who attended the Derry protest, reflected on the long history of civil rights struggles in the region. “We are delighted that two generations on, so many young people are joining us on the same streets to stand up for Palestine and for Palestine Action,” he said.
As the legal challenge looms, activists are determined to maintain their momentum. The overarching message of today’s demonstrations highlights a growing public disquiet regarding the government’s approach to Palestine Action and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
In summary, today’s protests in Northern Ireland showcased a significant grassroots response to the government’s controversial actions, drawing attention to the need for ongoing activism and dialogue. The outcomes of the upcoming judicial review could further shape the landscape for similar demonstrations in the future.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
