The books of Irish bestselling author Sally Rooney have been suspended from sale in the UK due to issues surrounding her support for "Palestine Action," an organization designated as a banned group under UK counter-terrorism laws.

According to daily newspapers such as The Guardian, British publisher Faber released a statement on the 14th (local time) saying, "Due to current UK law, we are no longer able to remit UK earnings (royalties) to Sally Rooney. It is unconscionable to sell books while withholding income from the author," and announced that all forms of her publications will be suspended from sale in the UK.

Rooney is an author who has drawn significant attention for her works depicting the anxiety and lives of the contemporary younger generation. Her novels "Normal People" and "Conversations with Friends" were adapted into BBC dramas, with her other works including "Beautiful World, Where Are You" and "Intermezzo."

In an opinion piece for The Irish Times last August, Rooney strongly criticized the UK government's decision to designate "Palestine Action" as a banned group, stating, "I intend to continue supporting 'Palestine Action' using my book proceeds and external platforms."

"Palestine Action" carried out a protest in June of last year by infiltrating a UK Royal Air Force base and damaging military aircraft. The British government severely condemned the action and designated the group as a banned organization in July of last year. Under this law, not only joining a banned group but also simply expressing support can be considered illegal.

Since Rooney publicly declared that she would use her book sales revenue to support "Palestine Action," the British publisher has found it difficult to pay royalties to Rooney.

When the British government designated a group as a banned organization on the grounds of "serious criminal damage" for the first time—placing it on the same level as terrorist organizations like Al-Qaeda—criticism emerged from human rights organizations and parts of the international community.

To date, about 3,000 people have been arrested while holding banners reading, "I oppose genocide and support Palestine Action." This has sparked ongoing controversy over whether it is appropriate to apply criminal charges to peaceful demonstrators.

On this day, Rooney released a statement reiterating her support for "Palestine Action," declaring, "I will remain publicly honest about my beliefs and intentions," and adding, "I am willing to accept the consequences."

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]