TEHRAN- British authorities have apprehended Latifa Abouchakra, a London-based journalist and contributor to Press TV, in what appears to be part of a broader effort targeting pro-Palestinian activism.

Abouchakra, a vocal supporter of Palestinian rights, was arrested while traveling to Birmingham to attend the launch of the Anti-Zionist Movement (AZM), a recently formed group that positions itself against Zionist ideology and in support of Palestinian resistance.

Police officials stated that the arrest was linked to enhanced security arrangements surrounding the event. However, activists have claimed the action reflects pressure from pro-Israel lobbying interests, accusing authorities of selectively policing events that challenge or criticize the Israeli government.

Abouchakra has emerged as a prominent voice on Press TV's "Palestine Declassified," where she has openly criticized Israeli policies and the Zionist presence within Western institutions. The AZM event, which was set to take place at Birmingham's Old PrintWorks, was ultimately canceled by the venue due to safety concerns following police scrutiny of the group's social media activity.

Among the speakers slated for the event were David Miller, a former professor at the University of Bristol who was dismissed in 2021 amid unfounded allegations of anti-Semitism, and Rahmeh Aladwan, a British-Palestinian physician known for her multiple arrests related to pro-Palestine social media expressions.

Abouchakra’s detention underscores a deepening campaign against pro-Palestinian activism under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government, which has broadened police powers to curb public protest. 

Since taking office in July 2024, Starmer has drawn criticism for continuing—and in some cases intensifying—policies introduced by previous administrations. 

A key flashpoint was the July 2025 decision to classify Palestine Action as a terrorist organization. This unprecedented move marked the first time a direct-action protest group had been designated under the Terrorism Act 2000, effectively criminalizing membership or support with sentences of up to 14 years in prison. 

The broader crackdown has led to more than 2,400 arrests, including cases where individuals were detained simply for holding supportive signs. Human rights groups and anti-crackdown activists warn that these measures stifle freedom of expression and disproportionately target those showing solidarity with Palestine, fostering a climate of fear that discourages dissent.

SAB/