UK Bank Denies Mortgage to Mother of Pro-Palestinian Activist

Lloyds Bank has denied a mortgage application to the mother of Leona Kamio, a pro-Palestinian activist convicted for vandalism at an Elbit factory near Bristol, England. According to Novara Media, the bank informed Kamio's mother that while her application was reviewed, "financial advisors do not feel comfortable supporting the application." The bank also refused to transfer assets to her sister's name and blocked any further attempts to pursue the mortgage through other channels.

Previously, Leona Kamio herself received a letter from the bank stating it "cannot maintain a financial relationship" with her while she was in custody. Kamio was one of four Palestine Action activists convicted for their actions at the Elbit factory, causing approximately $1 million in damages. Surveillance footage showed individuals in red jumpsuits entering the facility with hammers and axes, and assaulting police officers present. Kamio and two other activists were sentenced to six years in prison.

Kamio's mother, who owns a small business in South Wales and is a long-time Lloyds customer, stated that her business has suffered due to her daughter's actions. A Lloyds spokesperson told Novara Media, "We do not close accounts or make credit decisions based on political or personal beliefs. Our decisions are based on relevant laws, regulations, account terms, or credit requirements. We cannot comment on individual cases."

In July 2025, Palestine Action was designated a terrorist organization by the UK government. Several legal challenges to this decision have been unsuccessful.