150+ writers and stars challenge UK’s Palestine action

More than 150 prominent writers, actors and cultural figures have urged the UK government to amend its ban on Palestine Action, describing the legislation as a threat to freedom of expression.

The appeal follows Irish author Sally Rooney’s decision to halt the sale of her books in Britain after her publisher, Faber, said the ban prevented it from legally transferring her UK royalties to her.

The open letter was signed by Nobel laureates Annie Ernaux and Anne Carson, alongside authors Arundhati Roy, Jhumpa Lahiri, Zadie Smith and Julian Barnes. Actors Paul Mescal and Tilda Swinton also joined the campaign.

The British government designated Palestine Action a terrorist organisation in July 2025, making membership and support for the group illegal under UK law. The decision has sparked widespread criticism, with thousands reportedly arrested during protests against the ban.

Rooney has publicly supported Palestine Action and expressed her intention to provide financial support to the group. She said the restrictions had created a situation in which her books could no longer be sold in Britain under the existing arrangements.

The signatories called on the government to reconsider the legislation, arguing that it had undermined fundamental freedoms and led to an unacceptable restriction on literary expression.

Palestine Action says its campaign aims to end international involvement in Israel’s occupation and treatment of Palestinians. The group has organised protests targeting weapons manufacturers, including facilities linked to Israeli arms company Elbit Systems.