Pro-Palestine Activists Convicted of Harassing UK Minister

Court Rules on Intimidating Confrontation During Election Campaign

Two women have been found guilty of harassing UK Justice Minister Alex Davies-Jones in a heated confrontation during last year’s general election campaign. The case highlights growing tensions around political discourse on international conflicts.

Key Details of the Case

• Defendants: Ayeshah Behit (31) and Hiba Ahmed (26) from Treforest, Rhondda Cynon Taf
• Location: Incident occurred while Davies-Jones was leafleting in Pontypridd on June 26, 2023
• Verdict: Both convicted of harassment at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court

The Confrontation: What Happened

Senior District Judge Paul Goldspring heard that the activists:

• Approached Davies-Jones aggressively while she campaigned
• Distributed leaflets labeling her as a “full-blown supporter of this genocide” in Gaza
• Followed the MP while shouting accusations including “why do you support genocide?”

Davies-Jones testified:

“It was escalating in terms of passion and intensity. We walked off in the opposite direction. We felt scared and intimidated and we wanted to leave the situation.”

Legal Outcome and Sentencing

Judge Goldspring ruled the activists’ conduct was:

• Part of a “deliberate and sustained campaign”
• Designed to cause “alarm and distress”
• “Not reasonable” and “oppressive” in nature

Sentencing Details:

• Hiba Ahmed: 12-month conditional discharge (no prior convictions)
• Ayeshah Behit: 18-month conditional discharge (previous protest-related conviction)
• Both ordered to pay £650 costs plus £26 court surcharge (£20/month)

Impact on Political Campaigning

The incident caused Davies-Jones to:

• Temporarily halt her canvassing activities
• Experience significant distress according to court testimony

This case raises important questions about the boundaries between political protest and harassment of elected officials.