Mystery surrounds the Palestinian flag that continues to fly high over Dublin atop the city's tallest monument, the Spire, as authorities deem removal too risky. The flag appeared on the 120-metre structure on O'Connell Street in September and has remained for seven months, defying all proposed removal methods. Who installed it and how remains unknown.
Removal Options Rejected as Dangerous or Futile
City authorities have considered various options, including climbing ropes, bespoke ladders, and a 300-tonne crane, but rejected them as too dangerous, expensive, or futile. An engineer reportedly told Dublin City Council, according to internal correspondence published in the Irish Times, that someone could easily place another flag, advising that ground-level access options have been exhausted.
Public Awareness and Support
On a recent windy day, the small green, red, and black flag fluttered above traffic and pedestrians. Many people are unaware of its presence as it often becomes tangled and difficult to see, but once notified, they approve. Ireland is one of the European Union's most outspoken critics of Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank. The Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign welcomed the stunt, posting on X that it was a feat of acrobatics or ingenuity and that the streets are with Palestine.
Suspected Drone Deployment
No individual or group has claimed responsibility, but authorities suspect the flag was dropped by a drone. It is attached to a hoop approximately 105 metres up the Spire, a stainless steel structure resembling a needle. The site is historic, opposite the General Post Office, which was occupied during Ireland's 1916 rebellion. Previously, a pillar of Horatio Nelson stood there until the IRA destroyed it in 1966.
History and Nicknames of the Spire
The Spire, officially called the Monument of Light, was erected in 2003. It has been nicknamed the "stiffy by the Liffey" and the "stiletto in the ghetto."
Experts deemed the rope and ladder options too risky. The engineer told the council that they would only consider a mobile crane with a basket, but the disruption and cost have deterred action.
