News- Middle East: British police have arrested more than 200 people in central London at a demonstration in support of the banned pro-Palestinian group Palestine Action.

London's Metropolitan Police said in a post on X on Saturday that the arrests took place after a "significant number of people” gathered in Westminster's Parliament Square, where they were seen holding placards in support of the “proscribed group.”

"Officers have moved in and are making arrests," the Met said, adding that, "It will take time but we will arrest anyone expressing support for Palestine Action."

Between 600 and 700 people participated in the demonstration, organized by Defend Our Juries, as they displayed signs reading, “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.”

Video footage from the location depicted officers clashing with the protesters, most of whom were seated on the ground, and engaging in conversations with them before taking them away. 

The Metropolitan Police stated that they had mobilized officers from other forces to bolster a “substantial policing presence” in the capital, anticipating a busy weekend of protests.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan warned that officers would be ready to arrest anyone showing support for Palestine Action, urging people to "consider the seriousness of that outcome."

Palestine Action, which targets UK-based Israeli arms factories and their supply chains through direct action—such as splashing red paint and destroying equipment— was officially proscribed on July 5 under the Terrorism Act 2000.

The designation makes it a criminal offence to support or be a member of the group, punishable by up to 14 years in prison.

The Met had threatened to take action against any public displays of support for proscribed organizations, including chanting, clothing, and placards.

The co-founder of Palestine Action, Huda Ammori, won a bid last week to bring a legal challenge against the ban.

Ammori’s lawyers have argued that the ban breaches the right to free speech and is a gag on legitimate protest.

More than 200 people have been arrested across the UK since the ban was implemented by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper last month.

Source: Press TV