Speech endorsing 7 October attacks allegedly broadcast on X
A woman from north London has been charged with two counts of expressing support for Hamas, a proscribed terrorist organisation in the UK.
Sarah Cotte, 20, from Camden, is accused of delivering a public speech in October 2023, in which she allegedly endorsed and celebrated the 7 October attacks in Israel. The speech was reportedly recorded and later broadcast on X (formerly Twitter).
She also faces a second charge for allegedly making similar comments in a WhatsApp group, inviting support for those responsible for the attacks.
Arrest and charges
Cotte was arrested on 30 January 2024 following an investigation by counter-terrorism officers. After reviewing evidence, she was formally charged on 4 March under the Terrorism Act 2000, which criminalises support for organisations banned under UK law.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed her arrest and upcoming court appearance in a statement:
“A 20-year-old woman from Camden has been charged with two offences under the Terrorism Act 2000, relating to the expression of support for a proscribed organisation. She was arrested on 30 January and charged on 4 March.
“The charges relate to a speech made in October 2023 and comments posted in a private WhatsApp group.”
Court appearance and legal implications
Cotte is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 24 March, where she will face the charges.
Under UK law, Hamas is designated as a terrorist organisation in its entirety. Expressing support for a proscribed group—whether through speech, writing, or social media—can carry severe legal consequences, including potential imprisonment.
Legal experts have noted that social media broadcasts and private group messages can still constitute criminal offences if they promote, glorify, or encourage acts of terrorism.
UK stance on Hamas and terrorism legislation
The UK fully proscribed Hamas as a terrorist organisation in November 2021. Previously, only its armed wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, was banned, but the Home Office extended the designation to cover the entire group, making any form of support illegal.
Under the Terrorism Act 2000, it is an offence to:
- Belong to or invite support for a proscribed organisation
- Express opinions or statements that could be seen as encouraging support
- Distribute materials that endorse or promote a banned group
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If convicted, Cotte could face a prison sentence, though the exact penalty would depend on the outcome of her trial.
Context and reaction
The allegations come amid heightened tensions following the 7 October attacks in Israel, in which Hamas-led militants launched a deadly assault, killing around 1,200 people and taking hostages. The attack led to a large-scale military response from Israel, resulting in thousands of deaths and widespread destruction in Gaza.
In the UK, pro-Palestinian demonstrations have taken place regularly since the conflict escalated. While peaceful protest is legal, supporting or glorifying Hamas is a criminal offence due to its terrorist status.
The case has sparked debate about freedom of speech and counter-terrorism laws, with some arguing that strict enforcement is necessary to prevent radicalisation, while others warn of potential overreach in policing speech and online discussions.
More details about the charges and potential sentencing are expected when Cotte appears in court on 24 March.
