Verdict on Breach of Protest Conditions
Two leading figures in the British Palestine solidarity movement have been convicted of violating conditions set for a protest. Ben Jamal, 62, director of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), and Chris Nineham, 63, vice-chair of the Stop the War Coalition, faced charges related to public order offences following a demonstration on 18 January 2025.
The protest on 18 January was among 34 national pro-Palestine demonstrations held since the Gaza conflict began in October 2023. At Westminster magistrates court on Wednesday, both Jamal and Nineham were found guilty. Judge Sternberg affirmed that the conditions imposed on the protest were lawful and necessary, stating both defendants were clearly aware of them.
Details of Convictions and Judge's Statement
In addition to breaching protest conditions, Jamal was convicted on two counts of inciting other protesters to violate police-imposed restrictions. The judge described Jamal's speech during the protest as incitement, characterizing it as
“a suggestion, persuasion, and inducement”encouraging breaches of the conditions.
Judge Sternberg emphasized the limits of protest rights, stating:
“Protest rights, while fundamental, are not absolute and do not permit breaching lawfully imposed conditions.”
Police Response and Public Reaction
The Metropolitan Police faced considerable criticism for their management of the central London protest, which resulted in over 70 arrests. Trade union leaders, legal experts, Members of Parliament, and peers condemned what they described as
“repressive and heavy-handed policing”during the 18 January demonstration.
Earlier marches following the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent Israeli military response in Gaza had generally proceeded without incident. Relations between police and organisers, including the PSC, were previously regarded as cordial.
Dispute Over March Route and Police Conditions
Campaigners aimed for the march to start or conclude at BBC headquarters in Portland Place to protest the broadcaster's coverage of the Gaza war. This location had been used twice before without issues. Although organisers accepted police conditions, they alleged that the Metropolitan Police later withdrew an agreement regarding the starting point and imposed an
“unprecedented exclusion zone”.
The Metropolitan Police explained that conditions were set considering
“the cumulative impact”on Jewish Londoners, noting the march's proximity to synagogues. Officers also stated they believed there was a coordinated effort to breach these conditions.
Several critical letters were sent to the police force, accusing it of falsely alleging that protesters carrying flowers—including former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and former shadow chancellor John McDonnell—had forced their way through police lines. Video footage appeared to show these individuals were initially allowed through by officers.
Court Scene and Supporters
On Wednesday morning, dozens of protesters gathered outside the court. The public gallery was filled with supporters of the defendants, including Jeremy Corbyn, as Judge Sternberg delivered the verdicts.
