Hung Jury in UK Terrorism Case Over Activist’s Posts Triggers 2027 Retrial
A new trial will test where UK terror law draws the line between political speech and support for a banned group.
Overview
- Jurors could not reach a verdict after more than 13 hours of deliberation, so the court ordered a four-week retrial in September 2027.
- Majid Freeman faces charges of encouraging terrorism and expressing support for Hamas based on posts in 2023 and 2024 on X and Instagram.
- Prosecutors said he amplified Hamas by using symbols such as a red triangle and by reposting a 2024 Middle East Eye clip from Gaza.
- Freeman denied backing Hamas and said his posts responded to the war in Gaza to raise awareness and call for a ceasefire.
- The case underscores how UK law treats Hamas as a banned group and how courts weigh online posts, emojis, and hashtags against claims of political expression.