Around 20 branches of Barclays have been vandalized by pro-Palestinian and climate activists protesting against the UK bank’s business dealings in Israel and funding of polluting industries. Windows were smashed, red paint was sprayed, and rocks inscribed with the names of Palestinians killed in Gaza were thrown through windows. The group Palestine Action stated that the actions were to demand the bank divests from Israel’s weapons trade and fossil fuels. They expressed frustration with Barclays’ limited progress in stopping their financing, and vowed to continue targeted actions until Barclays eliminates this financing completely.
Shut the System, an environmental activist group, posted pictures showing badly damaged Barclays branches. They and Palestine Action took radical direct action in frustration with Barclays’ progress on changing their climate-destroying and genocidal financing. Pro-Palestinian groups have called for protests against Barclays, alleging the bank invests billions of dollars in companies linked to Israel’s military. A report published by several organizations claimed that Barclays had investments in companies producing weapons and military technology used in attacks on Palestinians.
A Barclays spokesperson defended the bank’s role, stating that they provide vital financial services to companies supplying defense products to NATO and its allies. They clarified that Barclays does not directly invest in these companies and pointed out that supporting defense companies is compatible with Environmental, Social, and Governance considerations. The spokesperson emphasized the UK government’s role in implementing arms embargoes, suggesting that decisions regarding such matters are for elected governments to make. While recognizing the right to protest, Barclays asked that campaigners respect customers, colleagues, and property.
Three men were arrested in connection with criminal damage at a London branch of Barclays, as announced by the City of London Police. The ongoing protests and actions by pro-Palestinian and climate activists against the bank’s business dealings and financing have led to increased tensions and disruptions. The groups involved have expressed determination to continue their efforts until Barclays completely eliminates its financing in Israel’s weapons trade and fossil fuels. The vandalism and protests highlight the deep-seated frustrations and concerns about the bank’s involvement in supporting industries that are perceived as harmful and controversial. Efforts to address these issues will likely involve ongoing activism, dialogue, and potentially involvement from regulatory authorities and government bodies.
