Protest Unfurled: Man Climbs Big Ben with Palestinian Flag
A man who scaled London's iconic Big Ben and spent the day perched on the historic clock tower with a Palestinian flag was arrested shortly after he descended around midnight on March 9, according to police reports. Images from the scene depicted a cherry picker transporting him to emergency crews waiting below.
The Metropolitan Police received alert regarding the climber around 7:00 AM GMT on Saturday and confirmed that the man was apprehended after a lengthy standoff. He spent the day barefoot on a ledge several meters up the Elizabeth Tower, more commonly referred to for its clock bell Big Ben, while emergency teams urged him to come down.
Negotiators aboard a fire truck lift attempted to communicate with the individual using a megaphone, but social media footage captured him, dressed in a hoodie and baseball cap, insisting, "I will come down on my own terms." Footage also indicated concerns regarding a possible injury to his foot, as reports stated there was significant bleeding and he was inadequately dressed for the dropping temperatures after nightfall. AFP journalists present noted that he appeared to be bleeding from his foot during the incident.
Crowds gathered behind a police cordon, with supporters chanting phrases such as "Free Palestine" and branding the man as a hero. In response, the police cordoned off the surrounding area, including Westminster Bridge, and the Houses of Parliament canceled tours for the day.
Westminster police later announced that all roads in the area had been reopened. Conservative MP Ben Obese-Jecty expressed his concern on social media about security measures, stating, "Every day in Parliament I see dozens of armed police officers patrolling Portcullis House and the parliamentary estate. Where were they today?" He called for a full explanation to MPs and staff regarding how this protester managed to bypass security so easily.
The incident came on the heels of another pro-Palestinian protest where activists spray-painted "GAZA IS NOT 4 SALE" in large white letters on the lawn of former President Donald Trump's golf resort in Scotland. The Palestine Action group claimed the act was a direct response to what they interpreted as the U.S. administration's intent to ethnically cleanse Gaza. Police Scotland confirmed they were investigating the damage reported at the resort.
As the dialogue over Palestine continues to gain momentum in various corners of the world, instances like the Big Ben protest and the actions taken in Scotland illustrate the deep-seated frustrations and calls for justice that permeate the ongoing conflict. The involvement of major symbols and landmarks only amplifies the urgency and visibility of their cause.
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