Kathmandu— The United States government has levied sanctions against the British activist group Palestine Action, the pro-Palestine movement Masar Badil, and Italy-based digital service provider Autistici Inventati, as part of a broader effort by the administration to target groups it labels “far-left terrorist.” The penalties, announced Wednesday by the US Department of the Treasury, freeze assets held within American jurisdiction and prohibit financial transactions involving these organizations. Palestine Action, already proscribed as a “terrorist” group by the United Kingdom, has challenged the designations, arguing they represent a dangerous suppression of free speech and political dissent.

UK Ban Fuels US Sanctions

Palestine Action cofounder Huda Ammori directly linked the US sanctions to the UK’s prior designation of the group as terrorist, calling on British Prime Minister Andy Burnham to reverse the ban imposed by his predecessor Keir Starmer. “The fact that Trump is now taking inspiration from Britain’s repression of the movement for Palestinian freedom exposes just how dangerous this ban is and should be a wake-up call,” Ammori stated. The UK civil rights group Defend Our Juries echoed these concerns, warning in July 2025 that Starmer's ban would embolden authoritarian governments globally.

Direct Action Tactics Under Scrutiny

Palestine Action openly advocates for direct-action tactics, including acts of vandalism, aimed at disrupting what it considers complicity in Israel’s actions in Gaza. While acknowledging these protests may violate laws, rights advocates contend that the “terrorism” designation is a disproportionate response and poses a threat to free speech. Since being proscribed last year, UK authorities have arrested thousands allegedly showing support for Palestine Action. A British court initially revoked the designation in February but that decision was overturned on appeal in June; Palestine Action continues its legal challenge before the UK Supreme Court.

US Broadens Sanctions Against Pro-Palestine Advocates

The Trump administration framed Wednesday’s sanctions as part of a larger campaign against “far-left terrorist groups.” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that “political terrorism has no place in our society, and we will continue to cut the financial lifelines of these groups until they are eliminated.” This action follows previous US sanctions targeting individuals supporting Palestinian rights, including UN rapporteur Francesca Albanese and officials from the International Criminal Court.

Impact of Financial Penalties

The imposed sanctions effectively freeze any assets held by the designated groups within the United States. They also make it illegal for American citizens to engage in financial transactions with these organizations, significantly limiting their ability to operate and receive funding.

Palestine Action continues its legal battle against the UK ban while facing new financial restrictions from the US government, raising concerns about the suppression of political dissent and free speech.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.