A man accused of scaling Big Ben’s iconic clock tower in a dramatic pro-Palestinian protest has pleaded not guilty to charges of public nuisance and trespassing on a protected site.
Daniel Day, 29, is alleged to have climbed the Elizabeth Tower barefoot at around 7.20am on March 8, remaining perched high above Westminster for more than 16 hours while holding a Palestinian flag. The protest concluded shortly after midnight when Day was brought down by emergency crews using a cherry picker.
Charges and Court Appearance
Appearing at Southwark Crown Court on Monday, Day denied intentionally or recklessly causing a public nuisance and trespassing on a protected site, both criminal offences under UK law. The charges stem from his high-profile demonstration at one of the country’s most recognisable landmarks.
Wearing a calm expression in the dock, Day listened as Judge Tony Baumgartner released him on conditional bail ahead of his trial, scheduled for June 8, 2026.
Protest and Public Response
Day’s protest sparked widespread attention, with images of him barefoot and gripping a Palestinian flag at the top of the clock tower circulating widely online. The act disrupted traffic and drew security and emergency services to the Palace of Westminster throughout the day.
Supporters packed the courtroom’s public gallery and erupted into applause as the hearing concluded. Outside, pro-Palestinian demonstrators rallied with flags and drums, denouncing the charges and expressing solidarity with Day’s actions.
Background and Political Context
Day’s protest coincided with renewed global focus on the Israel-Gaza conflict, with rising tensions and civilian casualties continuing to dominate headlines. The UK has seen a wave of pro-Palestinian demonstrations, particularly in London, with activists calling for a ceasefire and stronger political intervention.
Critics, however, argue that targeting protected landmarks like the Elizabeth Tower poses a risk to public safety and stretches emergency resources. The Elizabeth Tower, more commonly known as Big Ben (though that name technically refers to the bell inside), is a Grade I listed building and an internationally protected site.
What’s Next?
Daniel Day is set to return to Southwark Crown Court on June 8, 2026, for a trial expected to draw further public and media scrutiny. The case raises ongoing questions about the limits of protest, public safety, and how far individuals can go to make a political point in the UK’s most symbolic spaces.
Day has not issued a public statement, but campaigners supporting him say his actions were a peaceful expression of conscience in the face of international injustice.
