Court Allows Review of Palestine Action Ban After Government Appeal Fails
The UK government has failed to stop a legal challenge against its decision to ban Palestine Action under terrorism laws. The Court of Appeal ruled that the case can move forward, marking a major step in the Palestine Action ban dispute.
Court Clears Way for Palestine Action Ban Review
In a significant decision, judges said the challenge can now be heard by the High Court next month. The ruling follows months of legal back-and-forth between the Home Office and Palestine Action’s lawyers.
What the Ruling Means
Huda Ammori, co-founder of Palestine Action, had earlier won permission for a judicial review. The review will examine whether the home secretary’s decision to outlaw the group was lawful and proportionate.
The Home Office said it is considering the implications of the ruling. However, officials stressed that Palestine Action remains a proscribed organization. They warned that anyone supporting or promoting the group will “face the full force of the law.”
The Palestine Action ban took effect on 5 July. It makes membership of, or support for, the direct action group a criminal offence. The group has been known for targeting facilities linked to the arms trade with Israel. As a result of the court’s decision, campaigners say the ruling offers hope for fair legal scrutiny. “This is an important opportunity for justice,” supporters said. The High Court hearing is expected to test the balance between national security powers and the right to protest.
