In Truro, 8 arrests were made this morning at a protest organised by Defend Our Juries in support of Palestine Action. This follows the proscription of the group under the Terrorism Act 2000 on 5th of July 2025.

The protest began at 11 am, lasting until just after 12:30 with demonstrators seen holding signs outside of Truro Cathedral reading “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action.”

One protestor, speaking to the crowd implored those listening to “Please watch anything that’s coming out about Palestine. You might want to sit here with us next time.” And addressing police officer pointed out “We’re being labelled as terrorists for holding a sign, for sitting here peacefully.”

Another protestor stated in an address to the crowd “I am 75 years old, I have had a professional career in education, I am a trained councillor, I have never broken the law. But I have a conscience, and this government doesn’t have a conscience – it has lost its moral compass. But I have mine, and their action has made my compass clearer.

“Our civil liberties, our freedom of speech, and right to assemble – to take non violent action, to take that away and threaten it, we will loose our democracy.”

Police responded to the protest by handing out leaflets outlining counter-terror legislation, and the police response to actions in contradiction with it. The leaflets read:

“Keep on the right side of the law.

“The law protects the right to lawful protest, and the Police support your right to legally make your voice heard. However, the law also protects people from racist and religious abuse, and from terrorism being promoted.

“Whilst the Majority of people are complying with these rules, a minority have crossed the line.”

The other side of the leaflet detailed the guidelines of how “To avoid ending up in our cells:” amongst which was “DON’T use any words or images: that support Palestine Action, Hamas, or any other banned organisation – it is illegal under UK law to support such terrorist organisations.”

They arrested 8 people in total under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

On Instagram, Defend Our Juries that stated that similar protests are occurring in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Derry. 

Image Via: Cobblestone Media.