Activists Replace German Flag With Palestinian Flag at Reichstag

On Sunday, November 8, pro-Palestinian activists replaced the German national flag flying in front of the Reichstag building in Berlin with a Palestinian flag. The German flag, known as the "Unity Flag," was first raised at the location on October 3, 1990, to commemorate German reunification. According to police spokesperson Martin Halweg, a 22-year-old man used climbing gear to ascend the flagpole, remove the German flag, and hoist the Palestinian flag in its place. Two accomplices live-streamed the event on TikTok. The activist remained atop the 28.5-meter flagpole for approximately 75 minutes, shouting slogans in support of Palestinians. Police and firefighters responded to the scene. The activist descended voluntarily and was arrested, while firefighters removed the Palestinian flag. Witnesses reported that over a hundred passersby observed the incident, with some applauding the activist's descent and the firefighters' actions. The organization Peacefully Against Genocide claimed responsibility for the protest. Its representative, Daniel Göpel, stated that the action aimed to draw attention to Israel's actions in Gaza, which the group deems genocide. Göpel also accused Germany of complicity due to arms supplies to Israel and called for the German chancellor to face trial. He recalled a similar protest by the organization about a year prior at the Brandenburg Gate. Berlin police confirmed the arrest of all three participants, releasing two after identity checks. The state security department is investigating the incident, with suspects facing charges including insulting the state and its symbols, property damage, and unlawful entry. The "Unity Flag," a 6 by 10-meter banner, holds special status as a national monument.