UK Government Moves to Ban Palestine Action After RAF Base Break-In
The UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is set to proscribe Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation following a dramatic break-in at RAF Brize Norton. The group sprayed red paint on military aircraft in protest against UK involvement in the Israel-Gaza conflict.
A written statement to Parliament is expected on Monday, and if passed, the group will be officially banned—making membership or support a criminal offense.
RAF Brize Norton Targeted in Pro-Palestinian Vandalism
In the early hours of Friday, Palestine Action activists breached security at the Oxfordshire airbase, targeting two Royal Air Force aircraft with red paint. A video posted by the group shows a protester riding a scooter up to an Airbus Voyager and spraying red paint directly into one of its engines.
The activists claimed the aircraft were refueling US and Israeli jets and asserted their actions had rendered the planes temporarily “out of service.” However, RAF engineers are still assessing the extent of the damage, and initial defence sources suggest no major operational disruption.
Government and Police Launch Full Investigation
The Ministry of Defence, Thames Valley Police, and South East Counter Terrorism Policing have launched an investigation into the breach. Authorities confirmed specialist officers are involved and that arrests are expected.
A police spokesperson said:
“Inquiries are ongoing to locate and arrest those responsible.”
This incident marks another escalation in Palestine Action’s campaign, which has previously targeted military contractors and sites accused of supporting Israeli operations.
Political Fallout: Starmer Condemns “Disgraceful” Act
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer labeled the break-in a “disgraceful act of vandalism.” He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to security and rule of law, especially around strategic military assets.
RAF Brize Norton is a critical hub for UK strategic air transport and aerial refueling, including operations involving flights to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, where reconnaissance missions over Gaza have been launched.
⚖️ Terror Designation Expected to Have Major Impact
The pending terrorist designation would outlaw all activities and affiliations with Palestine Action, placing it in the same legal category as violent extremist groups.
This move is likely to ignite further debate about the limits of protest, national security, and UK foreign policy in relation to the Middle East.
