Palestinian flag unfurled on the Eiffel Tower, six people detained

Saturday 16 May 2026 - 12:15

Six people were taken into police custody in Paris after a Palestinian flag was displayed on the first level of the Eiffel Tower, according to police sources reported on Saturday.

Authorities stated that the individuals were detained for unauthorized entry into a protected site and endangering public safety. The incident occurred on Friday when police were alerted shortly before 5 p.m. that a large flag, measuring approximately 4 by 3 meters, was being shown from the iconic monument.

Reports indicate that the activists climbed onto the roof area of a restaurant located on the tower’s first floor before unfurling the flag. The action was claimed by the environmental and activist group Extinction Rebellion, which said the demonstration aimed to mark the anniversary of the Nakba, a historical period during which hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were displaced following the creation of the State of Israel in 1948.

The detainees were placed in custody at a police station in Paris’s 7th arrondissement while investigations continue.

The incident sparked political reactions online. Some public figures expressed support for the activists, while others criticized the unauthorized nature of the protest. The group Extinction Rebellion called for public solidarity with those detained, while debate intensified on social media regarding the symbolism and legality of the action.

Authorities have not yet announced any further legal measures.