Protestor scales Sheffield Town Hall and removes Israel flag

An investigation is underway after protestors climbed onto the roof of the Town Hall in Sheffield and removed an Israel flag during a protest last night.

A spokesperson from the council said a number of people scaled the Town Hall and removed an Israel Flag, replacing it with a flag of Palestine.

The flag was handed back to the council.

By 8pm the Union flag was put back up - which had always been planned.

Leader of Sheffield City Council, Cllr Tom Hunt said:

“Everyone has the right to safe and peaceful protest but we cannot support the events that took place during the protest outside Sheffield’s Town Hall. Protestors put themselves and others in serious danger. We are a City of Sanctuary and this is not what we stand for.

“There are strong feelings about the situation in Israel and Palestine but we ask everyone to show respect and tolerance at this time.

“Our thoughts are with all those affected, including here in the UK.

“Terrorism is never justified. We call for peace and an end to attacks on innocent men, women and children in Israel and Palestine.”

A Police Spokesperson said:

"Officers attended reports of public order at the Town Hall on Sheaf Street in Sheffield this evening (10 October) at around 6:20pm.

"It is believed that two men climbed onto the roof of the building and removed the flag that was being flown.

"During officers’ attendance and their attempts to disperse the crowds, minor disorder led to the two suspects fleeing the scene."

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