The quintessential English village of Shenstone, Staffordshire – a scene of blossoming trees, meandering lanes, and tranquil quietude broken only by birdsong – has been repeatedly disrupted by demonstrations related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
For several years, this peaceful hamlet has faced ongoing disruptions due to the actions of Palestine Action. Their focus is UAV Engines LTD, a factory they allege manufactures components used in Israeli combat drones.
UAV Engines LTD vehemently denies these claims, stating: “This is categorically false and misinformation propagated by a group attempting to illegally prevent a lawful UK business from operating.” Despite the company’s denials, activists continue their targeting efforts.
Evidence of these actions is visible throughout the village; graffiti defaces walls and gates, with messages like “PAL ACTION WOZ ERE” chalked onto pavements – a mark left by determined activists aiming to shut down the factory. A constant police presence stands guard on roadsides and atop the factory roof, alongside increased security measures anticipating further action.
The disruption hasn’t gone unnoticed by Shenstone’s residents. Amidst the everyday routines of village life – the local shop displaying fresh produce, a hairdresser providing styling services, and the butcher selling sausage rolls—residents express frustration, confusion, and concern regarding the repeated protests.
“A lot of the people have no connection to Palestine!” exclaimed Gary, speaking with GB News after a morning bike ride. “It seems to be ‘rent a protest’ and people haven’t got a clue what they’re talking about.” He added, “They’re just jumping on it because it’s trendy to fly the Palestinian flag and go along to a little village in England and protest, which is absolutely ludicrous.”
Dan echoed these sentiments, stating: “You do feel intimidated, you do feel uncomfortable in your own village.” Sarah voiced concerns about the impact on elderly residents and questioned the potential effectiveness of the marches. “I’m more frustrated and fascinated by what difference they actually think it’s going to make? It’s going to cost the taxpayers loads of money in policing this weekend,” she told GB News.
Some villagers are too apprehensive to speak publicly, having reportedly experienced physical threats and verbal abuse. One resident shared that their address was publicized on pro-Palestine online groups.
Past demonstrations have seen locals confront the activists. A video obtained by GB News shows a resident questioning Palestine supporters about anti-Hamas signs, to which one replied: “But I am Hamas.”
As the protest began, hundreds of demonstrators converged on Shenstone. Many arrived via train, while others were transported from across the country by coaches advertised with free travel options from cities including Manchester, Liverpool, Batley and Leeds.
A significant police presence was deployed throughout the village to ensure public safety and maintain order. Large Palestinian flags were waved as the march proceeded through the narrow streets, accompanied by chants of “from the river to the sea” and “free Palestine,” echoing off the surrounding homes.
The procession took on a somber tone with six individuals carrying a coffin at the forefront. Banners demanded “SHUT ELBIT DOWN,” while other placards accused UAV Engines of harming children, with some displaying more extreme messages.
Reaching their target location, police vans blocked the road and officers formed a human barrier in front of the factory gates. Activists set up gazebos distributing leaflets and playing Islamic music. The volume escalated, with calls for “intifada” and “free Palestine” reverberating through the hills. Three flares—green, red, and white – were launched into the air, creating a thick cloud of smoke.
Nearby residents retreated to their homes, left waiting for the demonstration to conclude, many experiencing frustration and fear, wondering when this disruption would finally end.
