Key Highlights
- Greta Thunberg arrested for supporting Palestine Action hunger strikers in London.
- Thunberg held a sign reading “I support the Palestine Action prisoners. I oppose genocide.”
- City of London Police charged her with displaying an item in support of proscribed organization, contrary to Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000.
- Palestinian activists claim they targeted Aspen Insurance due to its links with Israeli defense firm Elbit Systems.
Activist Arrested for Supporting Palestine Action Hunger Strikers
Greta Thunberg, the internationally recognized climate activist, was arrested on Tuesday 23 December 2025, in central London during a protest supporting Palestine Action hunger strikers. The arrest comes as part of ongoing tensions between activists and law enforcement over the support for prisoners.
Protest and Arrest Details
A video shared by the Prisoners for Palestine protest group shows Thunberg holding a sign that read, “I support the Palestine Action prisoners. I oppose genocide.” The 22-year-old activist was at the demonstration outside the central London offices of Aspen Insurance to show solidarity with multiple members of the banned group who are currently in prison on remand and have been on hunger strike since November 1.
According to City of London Police, a man and woman were arrested earlier that morning for using hammers and red paint to damage a building on Fenchurch Street. Thunberg was among those later arrested for displaying a placard in support of the proscribed organization Palestine Action, which is charged under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000.
Context of the Protest
The group targeted Aspen Insurance because it provides services to Israeli-linked defense firm Elbit Systems. The activists claim that by supporting these companies, they contribute to the ongoing conflict and human rights abuses in Palestine.
At least three hunger strikers who initially began their strike have now stopped as their health deteriorated. However, others continue their protest. They are demanding an end to the UK’s hosting of weapons factories supplying arms to Israel, de-proscription of Palestine Action, an end to mistreatment of prisoners in custody, and immediate bail.
Government Response
The government has remained firm on its stance, with Lord Timpson, the prisons minister, stating that “These prisoners are charged with serious offences including aggravated burglary and criminal damage. Remand decisions are for independent judges, and lawyers can make representations to the court on behalf of their clients.” He added, “Ministers will not meet with them – we have a justice system based on the separation of powers, and the independent judiciary is the cornerstone of our system.”
A spokesperson from Defend Our Juries expressed concern over the government’s handling of the situation, stating that it could turn those expressing support for prisoners into alleged terrorists. They questioned whether the Met Police has made a mistake in interpreting the ban on Palestine Action or if this represents a shift in government policy.
