Activists accused of promoting controversial prisoner narrative
LONDON: A United Kingdom-based network linked by critics to Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood has come under increased scrutiny over its involvement in the global Red Ribbons pro-Palestinian campaign.
The campaign, launched in November, uses red ribbons and posters resembling Israeli hostage advocacy materials to highlight Palestinians held in Israeli prisons and detention facilities.
British activist Adnan Hmidan has publicly identified himself as the campaign’s founder. Reports also connect him to several British organizations accused by Israeli and Western critics of maintaining links with Hamas-affiliated networks.
Furthermore, Hmidan currently serves as chairman of the Palestinian Forum in Britain and works with media outlets including Al Hiwar TV and Al Arab in UK.
The campaign gained visibility through demonstrations, online advocacy, and fundraising efforts across Europe. Supporters argue the movement raises awareness about Palestinian detainees, including those held under administrative detention without formal charges.
However, critics claim the campaign attempts to portray convicted militants and prisoners as political hostages while replicating imagery associated with Israeli civilians abducted during the October 7 attacks.
Former officials and organisations draw international attention
Several individuals connected to organizations supporting the campaign have previously faced accusations or sanctions related to alleged extremist links.
Former Palestinian Forum in Britain head Zaher Birawi was sanctioned earlier this year by the US Treasury, which accused him of involvement with groups allegedly serving Hamas interests.
Additionally, campaign supporters include activist Greta Thunberg and actor Khalid Abdalla, both of whom promoted Red Ribbon material on social media.
Meanwhile, organizations associated with the campaign continue rejecting allegations of extremist affiliations and maintain that they support Palestinian human rights advocacy and prisoner awareness initiatives.
