Man Climbs Big Ben with Palestinian Flag, Arrested After Negotiators Intervene

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Man Climbs Big Ben with Palestinian Flag, Arrested After Negotiators Intervene

8 months ago

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SCMP

AFRICANEWS

INDIATIMES

Man Climbs Big Ben with Palestinian Flag, Arrested After Negotiators Intervene

Credited from: INDIATIMES

Traffic around the Palace of Westminster in London was severely disrupted after a barefoot man climbed the iconic Big Ben tower while holding a Palestinian flag. The incident prompted the closure of roads and pedestrian access as emergency services, including the Metropolitan Police, responded on Saturday.

Witnesses reported that the man was on a ledge several meters high up the Elizabeth Tower, which houses Big Ben. Initial reports indicated he appeared to be staging a protest. As emergency crews worked to diffuse the situation, negotiators used a fire brigade ladder platform to communicate with him. Eventually, after an extensive conversation, the man stepped down onto a cherry picker and was taken into a waiting ambulance.

Roads leading to the Palace were closed for most of Saturday, and tours of the Houses of Parliament were cancelled due to the ongoing situation. A small group of supporters gathered nearby, shouting "Free Palestine" as they watched from behind police barriers.

Following the man’s descent, he was arrested by the Metropolitan Police, which stated that the prolonged nature of the incident was necessary to ensure everyone’s safety, including that of the individual involved. For further details regarding this unfolding situation, visit India Times and Africanews.