Peter Tatchell arrested at pro-Palestine protest over 'globalise the intifada' placard

On Saturday, 28 January 2026, British human‑rights activist Peter Tatchell was detained by police in central London during a pro‑Palestine demonstration outside the British Embassy. He held a black and white placard emblazoned with the words 'Globalise the intifada', calling for wider international support for Palestinians. Tatchell, a well‑known civil‑rights campaigner, was arrested for alleged public order offences, a move he says reflects a 'dangerous trend' towards criminalising peaceful protest. The incident prompted criticism from civil‑rights groups and calls for clarification from the Metropolitan Police. Tatchell’s foundation publicly denounced the arrest, urging the police to respect the right to free expression. Tatchell has previously campaigned against hate crimes and for LGBT rights, and his arrest has drawn attention from international human‑rights observers. The case raises questions about policing of protests amid ongoing tensions over Gaza.