Police Close Bridge Street as Authorities Attempt Rescue
Emergency services have been called to Big Ben after a man scaled the iconic clock tower, holding a Palestinian flag.
Footage shared on social media shows the barefoot protester standing on a ledge several metres high, waving the flag and chanting in support of Palestine.
Road Closures as Emergency Response Unfolds
Police have closed Bridge Street, near Westminster Bridge, while officers and emergency crews attempt to bring the situation under control.
A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade (LFB) confirmed that crews from Lambeth, Chelsea, Soho, and Islington fire stations have been deployed to assist.
“Firefighters are responding alongside the Metropolitan Police Service to reports of a person scaling the Palace of Westminster,” the LFB said.
Police Statement and Rescue Efforts
According to the Metropolitan Police, officers were alerted at 7:24 am on Saturday, March 8, after reports of a man climbing Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament.
“Officers are at the scene, working to bring the incident to a safe conclusion. They are being assisted by the London Fire Brigade and the London Ambulance Service,” a police spokesperson said.
Protest Motivations Unclear
The man’s identity and exact motivations remain unconfirmed, but the protest appears to be in support of Palestinian rights amid ongoing global demonstrations.
Latest Updates to Follow
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the man has been detained or whether further disruptions are expected in the area.
More news from Chelsea
