The wife of the United Kingdom’s national security adviser is under scrutiny following a social media post that appeared to express support for Palestine Action, a group banned under British anti-terror legislation. Sarah Helm, who is married to Jonathan Powell—the Prime Minister’s senior security aide—posted a message on the platform X on October 15 referencing the proscribed organisation amid controversy surrounding author Sally Rooney.
Rooney, known for her novels *Conversations with Friends* and *Normal People*, recently announced that her books would no longer be sold in UK bookshops after her intention to donate proceeds from her work to Palestine Action raised legal concerns. Supporters of Rooney argue that she is making a principled stand, while critics say her position conflicts with the UK’s designation of the group as a terrorist organisation.
Helm’s post read, "God help us authors who support Palestine and Palestine Action," appearing to align with critics of restrictions on the group’s supporters. The post also came in response to comments by political commentator Adam Boulton, who had criticised Rooney and others for taking what he described as "a very strong pro-Palestine and anti-Israel stance." Boulton questioned how Rooney’s literary works relate to the Middle Eastern conflict and accused many Irish individuals of holding such views. Left-wing commentator Owen Jones defended Rooney and accused Boulton of vilifying her and smearing the Irish population.
The social media message from Helm, a former Middle East correspondent and author with a history of critical commentary on Israel, has prompted calls for a formal investigation. The Metropolitan Police confirmed it is assessing the post to determine if further action is necessary. Support or public endorsement of Palestine Action is a criminal offence in the UK, and authorities have arrested thousands of people under the ban.
Advocacy group Campaign Against Antisemitism condemned Helm’s statement, calling it “gobsmacking” and urging legal consequences consistent with those applied to others who express support for proscribed organisations. The group also called on Jonathan Powell to publicly repudiate his wife’s comments due to his role advising the government on national security and Middle East policy. Powell has been intimately involved in diplomatic efforts concerning Israel and the UK’s recent sanctions and trade restrictions against Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
A government spokesperson distanced official policy from Helm’s views, stating that she does not represent the government in any official capacity. Meanwhile, some political figures, including Reform MP Danny Kruger, expressed concern about the possible influence Helm’s position and views might have on government policy, given her husband's senior role.
Helm has so far declined to comment publicly, and police investigations remain ongoing. The episode highlights ongoing tensions around the UK’s approach to Middle East issues and the legal ramifications of supporting banned organisations.