Is This How Roger Waters' Story Ends - Behind Bars? "May Face 14 Years in Prison"
Artist’s public support for Palestine Action could lead to legal consequences under UK terrorism legislation
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Roger Waters, co-founder of the legendary rock band Pink Floyd, is facing growing calls for criminal prosecution after publicly supporting Palestine Action, a protest group recently designated a terrorist organization by the UK government.
In a video posted earlier this month, Waters described the group as “nonviolent” and “a great organization” composed of people who are “absolutely not terrorists in any way.” He also criticized the UK Parliament, claiming it had been “corrupted by agents of a genocidal foreign power.”
The Campaign Against Antisemitism, a UK-based advocacy group, issued a statement urging authorities to take action against Waters under Section 12 of the Terrorism Act 2000, which prohibits expressions of support for proscribed organizations.
The group stated it would pursue a private prosecution if law enforcement fails to act.
Waters, declared in the video:
“I declare my independence from the government of the UK, who’ve just designated Palestine Action a terrorist, proscribed terrorist organization.”
His remarks follow the UK government's decision in early July to ban Palestine Action after members trespassed onto a Royal Air Force base and defaced two aircraft with red paint.
Waters defended the group, saying they were engaged in peaceful resistance against Elbit Systems, an Israeli defense contractor with UK operations.
“I support Palestine Action, and I always will - because that is the right thing to do,” he said.
Under the UK’s current anti-terror legislation, individuals who “invite support, express approval, or display symbols” of a designated terrorist group may face up to 14 years in prison and/or a substantial fine.