Leonardo 5: Standing up to anti-Palestinian racism

Court Support 5Feb1 February 2025

The Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign (SPSC) stands in unwavering solidarity with Palestine Action's Leonardo 5, who are also members of our Borders branch. The five actionists courageously blockaded the Leonardo arms factory in Edinburgh in December to disrupt the production of laser targeting systems for F-35 fighter jets. These jets, used by Israel, play a central role in its ongoing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

The actions of the Leonardo 5 were driven by a deep commitment to upholding international law and opposing complicity in war crimes. Yet, instead of being commended for their moral stance, these activists now face criminal charges, including those under Scotland’s new hate crime legislation. They are accused of crimes “aggravated by prejudice relating to race, colour, nationality (including citizenship), or ethnic or national origins” – an accusation rooted in the very anti-Palestinian racism that underpins Israel’s apartheid regime.

The use of hate crime legislation in this context is a dangerous and deeply troubling precedent. It distorts the purpose of these laws, turning them into a tool to silence those who resist complicity in genocide and occupation. This attack on the Leonardo 5 seeks to criminalize dissent, delegitimize solidarity with Palestinians, and shield Israel’s violations of international law from scrutiny. Such an attack is in line with attempts by the state to deter Palestine Action's effective direct action campaign, but the people will not be deterred. Let us be clear: anti-Palestinian racism lies at the heart of these charges. By framing solidarity with Palestine as prejudice, this prosecution aligns with efforts to erase Palestinian voices and to shield Israel’s apartheid policies from accountability. Such slanderous accusations will not succeed in deterring those who stand against injustice. The Leonardo 5 are resolute in their fight, and we stand with them in challenging these baseless and politically motivated charges.

We call on all supporters of justice to join us in standing with the Leonardo 5. Their plea hearing will take place on Wednesday, February 5th, and we encourage everyone to attend from 9.30am to show your solidarity. Together, we must send a clear message: opposing genocide is not a crime—it is a moral and legal obligation.

As part of our support with the Leonardo 5, Scottish PSC is raising funds to help cover legal costs. Contributions, no matter how small, will make a significant difference in enabling this fight against injustice. You can donate here.

The actions of the Leonardo 5 are in line with international law and shine a light on Scotland’s complicity in funding arms production companies for Israel’s war crimes. We must support all who take direct action against the genocide and particularly support the work of Palestine Action, as a driving force against the Israeli arms trade. Together, we will resist injustice and stand steadfast in solidarity with Palestine.

For justice and freedom.

Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign

Make a donation to the SPSC Fighting Fund