EU Parliament Member Under Investigation for Removing Israeli Flag

A controversy erupted in the European Parliament after French-Palestinian Member of Parliament Rima Hassan removed an Israeli flag from an exhibition commemorating the victims of the October 7th attacks. The EU flag, attached to the same display, also fell to the floor. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola stated that the accusations against Hassan are being taken "very seriously," noting that the MP was "documented allegedly vandalizing an exhibition honoring victims of the October 7th terror attack in Israel." Metsola added that appropriate disciplinary measures are being pursued, respecting Hassan's right to be heard. A parliamentary source indicated Hassan will be required to provide explanations, after which a decision will be made on disciplinary action. Hassan's office confirmed she removed the Israeli flag but denied claims of trampling or damaging it, stating the EU flag fell accidentally due to a loss of balance. Her representatives explained the act was a protest against Israeli government policy, not intended to disrespect the victims or their memory. Hassan has a history of being denied entry to Israel, including being deported after participating in a Gaza flotilla. She was also recently arrested in Paris on suspicion of supporting terrorism. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar condemned the incident as "shameful" and "insolent," criticizing Hassan's alleged lack of respect for the institution and thanking Metsola for her firm response.