A co-founder of Palestine Action has secured permission to challenge the UK government’s decision to designate the group as a terrorist organisation. Huda Ammori is contesting the home secretary Yvette Cooper’s move to proscribe the organisation under anti-terrorism legislation.

The ban followed an incident on June 20, when Palestine Action claimed responsibility for actions that resulted in damage to two Voyager aircraft at RAF Brize Norton, a military airbase in Oxfordshire. The government responded by listing the group as a terror entity, citing concerns over its activities.

Ammori’s legal challenge argues against the classification, seeking to overturn the home secretary’s decision. The case will be heard in the High Court, where the judiciary will consider whether the proscription was lawful and justified.

The government maintains that Palestine Action’s conduct meets the criteria for proscription, pointing to the reported sabotage of military assets as evidence of their extremist intent. Supporters of the group contend that their actions are a form of protest linked to broader political issues and dispute the characterization of the organisation as a terror group.

The legal proceedings mark a significant test of the UK government’s use of anti-terror laws against activist groups accused of property damage. The court’s ruling will clarify the scope of proscription powers and the balance between national security and political expression.