ILA pro-Palestinian activist named Daniel Day climbed the Elizabeth Tower (commonly known as Big Ben) barefoot and livestreamed his protest for 17 hours on March 8, 2025, causing significant disruption and costing UK taxpayers an estimated £92,000. Day, who was unemployed at the time, scaled the tower after researching its structure and bypassed railings early in the morning. He unfurled a Palestinian flag on a ledge and remained there until late at night, livestreaming his actions and shouting slogans such as 'Free Palestine.' The court heard that Day's actions required a large emergency response, including police cordons and road closures. Judge Tony Baumgartner sentenced him to a 14-month suspended prison term, emphasizing that breaking the law cannot be justified by personal beliefs.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the event factually, quoting both the defendant and the judge, and includes details about the legal process and costs incurred. It does not exhibit overt bias toward either the activist or the state, maintaining a balanced tone throughout.
