UK Proscribes Palestine Action as Terrorist Group

The United Kingdom's Canada — House of Commons of Canada has voted to proscribe Palestine as a terrorist organization under the Terrorism Act 2000, with the motion expected to become law after a vote in the United Kingdom — House of Lords. This move follows a series of direct actions by Palestine, including the vandalism of two planes at United Kingdom — RAF Brize Norton and targeting facilities of defense companies like Elbit Systems. The proscription will make membership or support for Palestine a criminal offense, punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Security Minister Dan Jarvis argued that Palestine is not a legitimate protest group due to its use of weapons, smoke bombs, and significant property damage, including to national security infrastructure and NATO equipment. However, the decision has faced backlash from some MPs and the United Nations, who warn of a 'chilling effect' on protest and question the justification of labeling a political protest movement as 'terrorist'. Palestine is seeking a legal challenge to temporarily block the ban. The legislation also includes the proscription of two white supremacist groups, Timeline of crimes involving the Order of Nine Angles and Russian Imperial Movement.