This morning, protesters affiliated with Palestine Action have successfully blocked all four entrances to Discovery Park in Kent, preventing access to the prominent business and science estate. Discovery Park, known for its advanced laboratory facilities and modern office spaces, is situated near Sandwich and serves as a hub for various scientific and technological companies.
The protest specifically targets the Instro Precision weapons factory located within the park, a subsidiary of Elbit Systems, which manufactures sniper rifle sights for the Israeli military. The demonstrators are protesting against the ongoing conflict in Gaza, accusing Israel of committing acts of genocide and expressing a desire to shut down the weapons manufacturing facility as part of a broader economic blockade to support Palestine.
Police are currently at the scene, attempting to disperse the protesters and reopen the entrances to the park. The demonstration has caused significant disruptions to the day-to-day operations of businesses located at Discovery Park, with employees and visitors unable to enter the premises.
The protesters have emphasized their goal to draw international attention to the situation in Gaza and influence UK-based companies to reconsider their business dealings with entities involved in military operations. This incident marks an escalation in local efforts to support Palestinian causes through direct action and economic impact strategies.
