Overview

• Mayor Mathieu Hanotin and Palestinian Authority representative Hala Abou Hassira raised the flag on June 13 as part of a global weekend of mobilizations calling for a ceasefire in Gaza
• On June 15 the prefect of Seine-Saint-Denis, Julien Charles, formally demanded the removal of the flag under the principle of neutrality of public services
• Mayor’s office says the flag will be reinstated at future events related to Palestine or if France officially recognizes the State of Palestine
• Rosny-sous-Bois councilor Shannon Seban filed the initial complaint, arguing the municipal display risked inflaming tensions and fracturing national cohesion
• A December 2024 incident in Montfermeil similarly led an administrative court to order the removal of a Palestinian flag from another town hall