Climate activist Greta Thunberg was arrested in central London after joining a protest outside an insurance company’s offices and holding a placard in support of Palestine Action-affiliated hunger strikers. The demonstration drew attention not just for its message but for the surprising charge used by police under UK counter‑terrorism law.
What Happened at the Protest
Thunberg arrived at the scene after the protest had already begun outside the Aspen Insurance building on Fenchurch Street. She sat down holding a sign that read, “I support the Palestine Action prisoners. I oppose genocide.” Witnesses said she stayed peacefully alongside other demonstrators.
Earlier in the morning, two other activists had attacked the front of the same building with red paint, using repurposed fire extinguishers before locking themselves to the structure. Police said hammers and paint were used in the incident, which took place around 7 a.m. Local officers worked to free the pair before placing them under arrest on suspicion of criminal damage.
Arrests and Charges
A spokesperson for the City of London Police confirmed multiple arrests. The woman carrying the placard, later identified as Thunberg, was arrested on suspicion of displaying material in support of a proscribed organisation. Police cited section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000, claiming the wording of the sign fell under the definition of support for the banned group Palestine Action.
Campaigners at the scene questioned why Thunberg’s sign, which expressed solidarity with hunger strikers, would lead to a counter‑terrorism charge. Supporters said the wording had been used in dozens of previous protests without similar legal action.
Who Were the Protesters Supporting?
The demonstration was organised in solidarity with a group of people associated with Palestine Action who are on hunger strike while awaiting trial. Organisers say there are eight hunger strikers in total. Two have reached more than 50 days on strike, and three have stopped due to serious health risks.
Family members and supporters have urged British justice officials, including Justice Secretary David Lammy, to meet with them. Lawyers for the hunger strikers sent a legal letter to the Ministry of Justice, arguing that the government’s refusal to meet their demands violated its own policies on handling hunger strikes.
The hunger strikers’ core demands include immediate bail, lifting the ban on Palestine Action, and ending restrictions on their communications.
Why Aspen Insurance Was Targeted
The protest focused on Aspen because campaigners said the firm had provided services to Elbit Systems UK, the British division of an Israeli defence manufacturer. Palestine Action previously targeted other insurers believed to be linked to arms companies but has claimed success as firms like Allianz and Aviva ended their insurance relationships with Elbit and UAV Engines.
Aspen has been approached for comment on the protest and its links with Elbit Systems UK, but no public response has yet been published.
Reaction from Thunberg
After her arrest, Thunberg released a statement saying it was “up to the state to intervene” and meet what she described as reasonable demands from people trying to stop genocide. She urged authorities to act in favour of human rights and freedom of expression.
