Sally Rooney’s books pulled from UK over Palestine Action support

Irish author Sally Rooney’s books will no longer be available for sale in the United Kingdom after her publisher, Faber, decided to stop distributing her work over legal concerns linked to her support for Palestine Action.

The British publishing house announced the decision on Wednesday, saying current UK legislation had created circumstances in which it could not transfer earnings from Rooney’s work to the author. Faber said continuing to sell her books without paying her was unacceptable.

The publisher said the decision had been taken with Rooney’s full agreement. However, it will continue distributing her books in other countries and regions.

Rooney, best known for her bestselling novels Normal People and Intermezzo, has publicly supported Palestine Action and previously said she would donate earnings from her work to the group. She has also raised concerns about the impact of the UK ban on freedom of expression.

In a statement, Rooney said fulfilling publishing contracts in Britain could now expose those involved to serious criminal consequences. She confirmed that Faber had decided to withdraw her work from the UK market following consultations and discussions with her.

The author said she was prepared to accept the consequences of her political beliefs.

The UK government banned Palestine Action in July 2025, designating it a terrorist organisation. The ban makes membership of or support for the group a criminal offence in Britain. The organisation is challenging the decision, while it remains legal in Ireland, where Rooney lives.

Palestine Action says its campaign aims to end international involvement in what it describes as Israel’s genocidal and apartheid system. The group came under increased scrutiny following several high-profile protests linked to the war in Gaza, including actions targeting weapons facilities associated with Israeli arms manufacturer Elbit Systems.

The ban has sparked widespread criticism from rights groups and public figures, who argue that it risks criminalising political dissent. Thousands of people have also protested against the proscription, with many detained during demonstrations.

The UK Supreme Court is expected to hear an appeal against the ban next month. The appeal was brought by Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori, who is challenging the government’s decision.

The dispute has intensified debate over the balance between national security laws, freedom of expression and the right to support political causes. Rooney’s case has also highlighted the potential consequences of the legislation for publishers and writers whose work or financial arrangements are connected to a proscribed organisation.