London: A protester who scaled the iconic Elizabeth Tower, home to Big Ben, while holding a Palestinian flag, descended after a tense 16-hour standoff ended Sunday with emergency services in central London. He was arrested by police.
According to Anadolu Agency, the protester, barefoot and sitting meters up the tower, began his climb early Saturday, triggering a large emergency response, as noted by officials. Metropolitan Police reported receiving the first alert at 7.24 am (0724GMT) and responded by closing Westminster Bridge, halting parliamentary tours, and causing significant traffic disruptions.
Emergency crews, including the London Fire Brigade and Ambulance Service, arrived at the scene, deploying a crane to facilitate negotiations with the climber. Throughout the ordeal, the protester, who had filmed his climb and posted videos on Instagram, articulated his intentions. In one video, he stated, "If you come towards me, you are putting me in danger and I will climb higher."
He later explained that he was protesting "police repression and state violence." A significant bloodstain was noted on the stonework of the tower, believed to be from injuries sustained during the barefoot climb. The man, who wrapped a Palestinian keffiyeh scarf around the tower, was heard chanting "Free Palestine" as a small group of supporters cheered from behind police barriers.
Negotiators maintained communication with the climber throughout the day. After Big Ben struck midnight, he agreed to come down on his "own terms," eventually being lowered by a cherry picker. Upon reaching the ground, the man was arrested by police. Westminster Police commended the collaborative efforts of the London Fire Brigade and other agencies in ensuring a peaceful resolution.
The incident raised questions regarding security in the Parliamentary Estate. Conservative MP Ben Obese-Jecty expressed concerns, questioning the absence of armed police officers patrolling the estate. A parliamentary spokesperson emphasized that security measures are taken seriously but declined to comment on specifics.