Sally Rooney faces arrest risk in the UK over pro-Palestinian support

Ireland has been embroiled in discussions surrounding the treatment of pro-Palestinian activists since the UK designated Palestine Action as a terrorist organization in June 2025. This designation came after a significant incident where activists vandalized aircraft at Britain's largest airbase, raising concerns about protest rights across the country. Notably, Irish novelist Sally Rooney announced that she would skip an awards ceremony in London due to fears of arrest, stemming from her vocal support for Palestine Action, which focuses on opposing actions related to the Israeli occupation. Rooney has long been an outspoken critic of the Israeli government's policies and has actively supported the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement. Her refusal to sell Hebrew rights for her novel to an Israeli publisher highlighted her commitment to the Palestinian cause. Recently, she expressed her frustrations about the chilling effect this designation has on free speech, noting that many artists and writers are now avoiding the UK for fear of repercussions. Such sentiments reflect a broader concern regarding civil liberties amidst the enforcement of terrorism laws that could lead to the criminalization of expressions of support for specific political causes. The broader cultural and political landscape in Ireland has shaped Rooney's perspective. Ireland has been historically sympathetic to the plight of the Palestinian people, partly due to its own experiences with colonialism and occupation. As the international community continues to scrutinize Israel's actions, including allegations of genocide in Gaza, Rooney's stance resonates with many who advocate for Palestinian rights and criticize military actions. Additionally, Rooney’s intention to donate residual fees from her works to support Palestine Action signifies a commitment to activism that transcends literary boundaries. The growing number of arrests during solidarity protests in the UK underscores the tense environment and the strict governmental stance on activism that challenges the status quo. As discussions evolve, it raises critical questions regarding artistic expression, civil liberties, and the state's role in policing political dissent within both the UK and Ireland.