Renowned street artist Banksy has unveiled a striking new mural at the Royal Courts of Justice in London, depicting a judge in traditional attire wielding a gavel over a protester holding a blood-splattered placard.

The mural, located on the Queen’s Building, emerged on 7th September, and was swiftly covered by court staff, sparking discussions about censorship and the role of art in political discourse.

Banksy confirmed the artwork’s authenticity through a post on his Instagram account, sharing images of the mural before it was concealed.

The piece has been interpreted as a commentary on recent pro-Palestine protests and the treatment of demonstrators, particularly following the arrest of nearly 900 individuals during a protest against the banning of the group Palestine Action.

The mural’s appearance coincides with heightened tensions between protest movements and the judicial system in the UK, with critics arguing that the right to peaceful protest is under threat.

Banksy’s work continues to challenge societal norms and provoke thought on issues of justice and authority.

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Photo credits to @banksy