A man was arrested after scaling the iconic Eiffel Tower on July 4th and attempting to hang a US flag from the landmark during celebrations marking America’s 250th Independence Day.The man was seen slowly climbing the 324-metre (1,063-foot) tower before unfurling the Stars and Stripes between the second and third floors. Police evacuated the forecourt along with the tower’s second and third levels as a precaution while officers responded to the incident.Flag removed, motive remains unknownFrench authorities later arrested the climber and removed the flag. According to the reports, the man did not explain his motive for the stunt.The incident coincided with the United States’ 250th Independence Day, commemorating the adoption of the United States Declaration of Independence, when the 13 American colonies declared independence from British rule.US marks 250 years of independenceThe flag stunt came as the United States celebrated the 250th anniversary of its independence with parades, fairs and fireworks across the country.Historic Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, remained at the centre of the commemorations, while cities nationwide hosted events reflecting on the country’s journey over the past two and a half centuries.Nicknamed the “Iron Lady,” the Eiffel Tower attracts around seven million visitors every year. Designed by Gustave Eiffel and unveiled for the 1889 World Fair, the monument initially faced criticism but has since become one of France’s most recognisable landmarks and a defining feature of the Paris skyline.
