Palestine Action group admits vandalising Oxford University building

The Blavatnik School of Government, located on Walton Street in the city centre, was targeted on the evening of February 27. 

The department, described as one of the University of Oxford’s “newest and most vibrant”, remains open as normal.

Palestine Action is a national protest group who describe their aim as “harnessing the strength of the grassroots and directing it towards bringing down Israel’s war machine”.

READ MORE: Oxford University: School of Government building vandalised

(Image: Palestine Action) They have previously targeted Barclays Bank and damaged factories linked to Israeli defence and technology company Elbit Systems.

They last targeted a university building in October last year. 

A spokesman for the group said: “We are here to send a clear message to Oxford: its role in funding and profiting from the genocide of Palestine cannot go unchallenged. 

“Oxford’s investment in Elbit Systems is not just a financial decision, but a political one that supports the violence and oppression faced by Palestinians every day.”

The university says it is working with the police following the incident.

A spokesperson for the University of Oxford previously said: “The front entrance of the Blavatnik School of Government has been subject to criminal damage but the school remains open as normal for teaching and research.

“The University is working with the Police to identify those responsible.”

Thames Valley Police has been contacted for more information.