Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

High Court Dismisses Terror Case Against Mo Chara

3/12/2026

41 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known as Mo Chara, will not face a terror trial after the High Court upheld the case's dismissal.
The court ruled the Crown Prosecution Service acted unlawfully by not obtaining the Attorney General's permission before charging him.
Ó hAnnaidh said the case was never about terrorism but about advocating for Palestine.
At a press conference in Belfast, supporters rallied behind him, displaying Irish and Palestinian flags.

History

Historical Context

The UK High Court's 2008 ruling against the government's misuse of anti-terror laws highlighted the need for legal oversight, particularly regarding the unlawful charges by the Crown Prosecution Service. This case set a precedent for civil liberties, echoing in Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh's recent claim that his advocacy for Palestine was mischaracterized as terrorism, underscoring the ongoing tension between national security and free expression.

1 of 2

Story summary

Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known as Mo Chara, will not face a terror trial after the High Court upheld the case's dismissal.
The court ruled the Crown Prosecution Service acted unlawfully by not obtaining the Attorney General's permission before charging him.
Ó hAnnaidh said the case was never about terrorism but about advocating for Palestine.
At a press conference in Belfast, supporters rallied behind him, displaying Irish and Palestinian flags.

1 / 2