Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced plans to proscribe Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation under the Terrorism Act 2000. This decision follows a shocking break-in and vandalism at RAF Brize Norton by the activist group.
Cooper revealed she will present the order to Parliament next week, which will make it a criminal offence to be a member of or support Palestine Action. The government is taking this step in response to the group’s escalating militant activities.
“The attack on Brize Norton is part of a long history of criminal damage committed by Palestine Action,” said Cooper. “This government will not tolerate threats to our national security.”
RAF Base Attack – What Went Down?
In the dead of night on Friday, 20 June, Palestine Action activists sneaked into RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire’s biggest air base, and smashed up two RAF Voyager aircraft. Activists arrived on electric scooters and used modified fire extinguishers to spray red paint deep into the turbine engines. Further damage was caused with crowbars.
The group claimed responsibility for the attack, stating the red paint symbolised “Palestinian blood.” They allege the jets support Israeli military strikes in Gaza, flying from the UK-controlled base in Akrotiri, Cyprus.
Counter-Terror Probe Underway
The Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command is now leading the investigation into the raid. At least three suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Hundreds rallied in London to protest the planned proscription of the group. However, the Home Secretary emphasised: “This decision is specific to Palestine Action and does not affect lawful protest groups or campaigns relating to Palestine or the Middle East.”
Strong Political and Military Backlash
Officials condemned the attack as “disgraceful.” A spokesperson stated: “Our Armed Forces represent the very best of Britain. We stand behind those who defend us.” Images provided to UKNIP show red paint smeared across the RAF Voyager engines and runway tarmac.
Who Are Palestine Action?
Formed in 2020, Palestine Action targets UK firms linked to Israel’s defence sector. Their tactics include paint attacks, sit-ins, and occupations of weapons factories.
The government’s move to proscribe the group escalates their status from disruptive protesters to a serious counter-terror threat. Anyone caught supporting Palestine Action after proscription faces up to 10 years behind bars.
Originally published by UKNIP.
