A dramatic protest took place at Westminster over the weekend as a man named Day scaled the iconic Elizabeth Tower barefoot at around 7:20 AM on Saturday, March 8, 2025. His climb, which lasted until just after midnight on Sunday, March 9, turned the ancient landmark, often known for its clock, momentarily iconic for another reason: Day's bold display advocating for Palestine.
About sixteen hours later, Day finally descended, but not without making clear he intended to do so on his own terms. A video posted on Instagram captured him telling negotiators on the scene, "I will come down on my own terms, I have said this. But right now I am saying I am safe."
Negotiators were concerned about Day's safety, especially as they noted he showed signs of bleeding from his foot and was inadequately dressed as temperatures plummeted after sunset. Nevertheless, he insisted he was fine and cautioned, "If you come toward me you are putting me in danger and I will climb higher." His declarations of safety did little to lessen unease, especially as hours passed with him still perched on the tower.
Meanwhile, on the ground, cheers of support echoed from gathered onlookers. Shouts of “Free Palestine” and “You are a hero” came from supporters who had assembled behind the police cordon at Victoria Embankment. The scene highlighted the deep emotions tied to the issue at hand, pushing this protest firmly onto the public stage.
Political reactions solidified during the event. Conservative MP Ben Obese-Jecty called for immediate accountability, emphasizing the need for answers on how Day was able to access such a high-security area with relative ease. "On Monday, there needs to be a full explanation to MPs and staff as to how this protester was able to evade security so easily,” he stated. This insistence signaled yet another potential examination of security measures surrounding the parliamentary estate.
Due to the incident, parliamentary tours were canceled, heightening awareness and concern over safety provisions and security protocols at Westminster, particularly as they relate to high-profile protests and access to sensitive areas.
Selectively rising as media attention grew, Day’s actions not only drew support but also questioned how the protest was able to occur without prior notice or security intervention. Critics pointed out flaws and possible gaps within the established security frameworks surrounding Parliament, which would be subject to review and reassessment following this incident.
Police maintained dialogue with Day, ensuring there was no escalation to violence during the stand-off. His eventual descent saw him taken immediately by authorities for assessment and questioning, after which he was remanded to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, March 10.
Day’s protest is emblematic of broader global issues related to Palestine, frequently sparking intense discussions and protests worldwide. His actions, though controversial, have once again propelled the dialogue surrounding Palestinian rights and advocacy onto the main stage.
Despite the protest's dramatic display, voices on both sides of the political spectrum are likely to engage more rigorously on parliament's security arrangements and what measures will now be required to prevent similar protests. With Day's sentiments echoing through Westminster, the hope remains within parts of the public for awareness and action surrounding the Palestinian cause to reach new heights.
This incident not only reflects the individual's dedication to activism but also poses urgent questions about the mechanisms of security and access at one of the world's most iconic political buildings.