Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

23 Palestine Action Activists Released as Court Rules Against Terror Label

2/22/2026

45 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Twelve activists from Palestine Action, a protest group, were released on bail at London's Central Criminal Court.
Their release follows earlier bail for eleven others, bringing 23 of the Filton 24 free.
Six activists were acquitted of aggravated burglary.
Charges against others were dropped.
The High Court ruled that the government's designation of Palestine Action as a 'terror group' is unlawful, and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood plans to appeal.

History

Historical Context

In 2023, the UK High Court deemed the government's classification of Palestine Action as a 'terror group' unlawful, following the release of 23 activists, including those acquitted of burglary. This ruling reflects ongoing debates about civil liberties, echoing historical tensions over protest rights, notably the 1986 Public Order Act, which aimed to regulate demonstrations in the UK.

1 of 2

Story summary

Twelve activists from Palestine Action, a protest group, were released on bail at London's Central Criminal Court.
Their release follows earlier bail for eleven others, bringing 23 of the Filton 24 free.
Six activists were acquitted of aggravated burglary.
Charges against others were dropped.
The High Court ruled that the government's designation of Palestine Action as a 'terror group' is unlawful, and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood plans to appeal.

1 / 2