The Bristol Seven, members of the group Palestine Action, recently escaped what could have been much harsher sentencing to effectively walk free with suspended sentences for their part in a protest that targeted an Israeli arms manufacturer investing in England.
The case, brought by Elbit UK, is a powerful example of how direct action can shine a light on continued British complicity in Israeli war crimes in Palestine.
Escaping incarceration was a significant victory that will have consequences reaching far beyond the courtroom.
In 2022, to commemorate Nakba Day on 15 May, nine activists arrived at Elbit System’s factory headquarters in Bristol, daubing walls with paint, smashing windows and then entering the offices to dismantle computers and equipment before barricading themselves inside. All nine were dragged away in handcuffs and charged with criminal damage and burglary. …..more