What's happened
Activists linked to Palestine Action have carried out multiple protests against Elbit Systems across Europe, including break-ins and vandalism. Recent actions include a German group claiming to have broken into Elbit's Ulm office, and UK protests leading to mass arrests. The sites are largely deserted amid ongoing activism and legal challenges.
What's behind the headline?
The recent protests by Palestine Action and its German affiliate highlight a strategic escalation in anti-arms activism across Europe. The actions serve multiple purposes: disrupting Elbit's operations, drawing international attention to its role in Gaza, and challenging legal bans. The desertion of the Bristol site and the destruction in Ulm suggest a shift towards symbolic sabotage rather than sustained occupation. The UK government's proscription of Palestine Action aims to curb these activities, but the widespread arrests and legal challenges indicate a contentious debate over free speech versus security. The emergence of a German branch complicates the narrative, suggesting that anti-arms activism is gaining momentum beyond the UK. This will likely lead to increased legal crackdowns and possibly more targeted protests, but it also risks galvanizing broader support for the group's cause. The core issue remains: whether these actions will succeed in pressuring companies like Elbit or simply entrench their legal and political opposition, ultimately shaping the future of activism against arms manufacturers in Europe.
What the papers say
The New Arab provides detailed reports on the recent protests, including the break-in at Elbit's Ulm office and the UK mass arrests, emphasizing the legal and political implications. The Guardian offers insight into the emergence of Palestine Action Germany and the destruction of the Bristol site, highlighting the escalation of direct actions. The Times of Israel notes the deserted state of Elbit's Bristol factory, framing it within the broader context of ongoing activism and legal restrictions. These sources collectively illustrate a pattern of intensified protests, legal crackdowns, and the strategic targeting of Elbit Systems across Europe, reflecting a broader geopolitical conflict over arms manufacturing and military support in Gaza.
How we got here
Palestine Action, founded in the UK in 2020, campaigns against Israeli arms companies like Elbit Systems, which supplies military equipment used in Gaza. The group was proscribed as a terrorist organization in the UK in July 2025, following a series of direct actions including vandalism and occupations. The UK government justifies the ban as targeting criminal activity, while critics argue it suppresses free speech. The recent emergence of a German wing signals expanding activism across Europe, with protests intensifying amid the Gaza conflict and ongoing legal battles over the group's status.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Did the UK Ban Palestine Action?
In July, the UK government proscribed Palestine Action after activists damaged military aircraft at a Royal Air Force base. This move has sparked widespread debate about security, civil liberties, and international activism. Many wonder what led to this ban, how it impacts protests, and what the broader implications are for pro-Palestine activism in the UK and beyond. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this controversial decision.
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Why Are Activists Targeting Elbit Systems in Europe?
Recent protests across Europe have seen activists targeting Elbit Systems, a major defense contractor linked to military operations in Gaza. These actions include factory shutdowns, break-ins, and calls for bans. But what’s driving this wave of activism, and what does it mean for the defense industry and political landscape? Below, we explore the reasons behind these protests and their broader implications.
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How Are Ongoing Conflicts and Economic Tensions Affecting the Global Market?
Recent conflicts and geopolitical tensions are shaping the world economy in significant ways. From drone attacks on Russian oil facilities to US stock market resilience amid inflation, these events raise questions about stability and future risks. Below, we explore the key issues and what they mean for consumers and investors alike.
More on these topics
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Palestine Action is a pro-Palestinian protest network that uses direct action tactics to shut down and disrupt multinational arms dealers. In particular, the group targets UK-based operations that provide weapons used in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict
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Elbit Systems Ltd. is an Israel-based international defense electronics company engaged in a wide range of programs throughout the world.
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of the European mainland.