Palestinian Flag Replaces German National Flag Outside Reichstag, Sparking Political Outcry
BERLIN: German authorities have launched an investigation after pro-Palestinian activists removed the national flag from a flagpole outside the Reichstag building in Berlin and replaced it with a Palestinian flag, prompting strong criticism from senior political leaders.
The incident took place around 11:30 a.m. Sunday at Platz der Republik, the square in front of Germany’s parliament. Bundestag President Julia Klöckner and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt condemned the action and raised concerns about security around the parliamentary complex.
According to German broadcaster ZDF and police accounts, three German nationals, aged 20, 22 and 32, were involved. Police temporarily detained the 22-year-old man, while the other two were instructed to leave the area.
Investigators said the 22-year-old climbed a flagpole approximately 30 meters high, lowered the German national flag and hoisted a Palestinian flag in its place. His two alleged associates reportedly assisted him and recorded the incident.
Police and fire service personnel subsequently removed the Palestinian flag. However, damage to the flagpole’s rope mechanism prevented authorities from immediately restoring the German flag.
Berlin police have opened an investigation into suspected offences including defamation of state symbols, damage to property serving the public interest, violations of the city’s assembly laws and trespassing. The case has been referred to the police department responsible for state security investigations.
Klöckner told German media that security at the Bundestag needed to be strengthened. She said she could not accept such an incident taking place at the parliamentary building and stressed that the institution should not become a stage for political activism.
She also highlighted the importance of securing the areas surrounding the Reichstag, noting that the Berlin state government had responsibilities in this regard.
Dobrindt also denounced the incident, describing it as an act of serious disrespect. In comments reported by German media, he characterized the operation as a deliberate act by left-wing agitators.
Meanwhile, an activist group calling itself “Peacefully Against Genocide” claimed responsibility in an online statement issued Sunday morning. The group said the action was intended to demonstrate civil society’s solidarity with the Palestinian people.
The German national flag is normally flown permanently outside the Reichstag as a symbol of national unity. The incident has renewed debate over security arrangements at one of the country’s most prominent political institutions.
