Police in London have detained several people after large groups took part in coordinated demonstrations opposing a recent law that criminalises public support for a banned pro-Palestinian organisation.
The arrests came during a wave of protests staged in various cities across the United Kingdom.
The rallies were organised by backers of Palestine Action, which had been active in targeting sites linked to the British defence industry.
Since early July, the group has been officially outlawed under terrorism legislation following an incident in which activists broke into a Royal Air Force base and damaged two military tanker aircraft.
Under the new measure passed by Parliament, anyone found to be promoting or expressing support for Palestine Action in public can face prosecution.
Officials have justified the ban on security grounds, saying the group’s actions put lives at risk and interfered with military operations.
Demonstrators, however, argue that the prohibition limits their ability to express political opinions and take part in non-violent campaigns.
Protest events in recent weeks have included marches, speeches, and symbolic acts such as holding banners and wearing clothing associated with the group.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that arrests were made during the London gatherings, but did not immediately release the total number of detainees.
Officers stated that further investigations are under way and that anyone found breaking the new law could face serious legal consequences.
This development has intensified debate in the UK over the boundaries between national security measures and civil liberties.
Legal observers expect challenges to the legislation in the coming months, with campaigners preparing to contest the classification of Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation.