Greta Thunberg was arrested in the City of London during a demonstration in solidarity with Palestine Action prisoners who are currently on a hunger strike. The 22-year-old activist was seen holding a sign expressing support for the Palestine Action prisoners and opposition to genocide. City of London Police confirmed the arrest of a 22-year-old woman for displaying a placard in support of a proscribed organization, Palestine Action, which is an offense under the Terrorism Act 2000. The demonstration occurred after hammers and red paint were used to damage a building. Police also arrested a man and a woman for criminal damage after they glued themselves to a nearby location.
The protest, organized by the group Prisoners for Palestine, targeted the offices of Aspen Insurance, which they claim provides services to Elbit Systems, an Israeli-linked defense firm. Palestine Action was officially proscribed under UK terrorism legislation earlier this year, making any support for the group illegal. Police investigations are ongoing. Thunberg, who gained global recognition as a climate activist, has been vocal in her support for the Palestinian cause, recently describing the hunger-striking activists as "political prisoners" and calling for their release and the dropping of charges.
The hunger strike began on November 2nd, with at least seven imprisoned Palestine Action activists requiring hospitalization, including one who has been on strike for 52 days. The legal firm representing the hunger strikers has submitted a pre-action letter to the Justice Secretary, indicating an intention to initiate legal action.