Irish novelist Sally Rooney’s books will no longer be distributed in the United Kingdom after she expressed support for Palestine Action, a group the British government has designated as a terrorist organization. Rooney and her publisher, Faber, have agreed to halt the supply of her works to British retailers due to legal concerns stemming from current UK legislation.
Faber stated that the existing legal framework in the UK prevents the transfer of earnings from Rooney’s book sales to the author. The publisher described this situation as “unconscionable,” as it would mean selling a writer’s work without the ability to compensate them. Rooney herself acknowledged that continuing to publish her work in the UK could now be considered a “serious criminal offense” and indicated her preparedness to accept the consequences of her actions and beliefs.
The decision follows the British government’s proscription of Palestine Action in July 2025. Rooney had previously announced her intention to use proceeds from her books and their television adaptations to support the group. This stance has raised concerns about potential legal repercussions for both Rooney and Faber under British anti-terrorism laws.
Rooney, the acclaimed author of best-selling novels such as “Normal People” and “Conversations with Friends,” has been a vocal supporter of the Palestinian-led Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. Her support for Palestine Action, a direct-action group that has targeted companies accused of supplying weapons to Israel, has been a point of contention.
The withdrawal of Rooney’s books from the UK market has reignited debates surrounding terrorism legislation and freedom of expression in the country. While new supplies of her books will cease, existing stock in bookstores can still be sold, and her works remain available in other territories. E-book editions have already been removed from UK sales platforms.
Palestine Action was founded in 2020 and engages in protests and sabotage against arms manufacturers and other companies it alleges are complicit in actions against Palestinians. The group describes itself as committed to ending global complicity with Israel’s policies. The British government’s designation of the group as terrorist cited its history of criminal damage and escalating attacks on defense infrastructure.
Rooney had previously canceled a trip to England to accept a literary award, citing fears of arrest due to her support for Palestine Action. Her publisher, Faber, has affirmed its commitment to her work and will continue to distribute her books internationally.
Global Affairs Desk at The Chenab Times covers international developments, global diplomacy, and foreign policy issues through fact-based reporting, explainers, and analytical pieces. The desk focuses on major geopolitical events, diplomatic engagements, and international trends, with an emphasis on verified information, multiple perspectives, and contextual understanding of global affairs.