Early this afternoon (30/05), a night climbing group revealed that it had placed a Palestinian flag atop the Seeley Historical Library.

The post shared on the @thenightclimbersofcambridge Instagram account contains two slides. The first is a photo of the Squire Law Library taken from the roof of Seeley Library, and the second is a photo of the Palestinian flag on top of the Seeley Library. Both had been taken at night. 

A member of the group told Varsity: “We’re not a political group; just a few students who wanted to say something in response to what’s happening in Gaza.” They explained that the intention was not to make “a big statement,” but to offer “a quiet gesture of solidarity”.

They added that there was also an element of “a bit of messing around during exam season”.

They stated that there was “no agenda beyond that,” and that the group “just wanted people to look up for a moment and think”.

As of 15:00 on today, the flag had not been removed. 

The Instagram page was created in March, but first posted on Instagram a week ago. It has also posted pictures from the roofs of Gonville and Caius College, Girton College, and a building on Sidney Street.

It appears to be separate from the @nightclimbersofcambridge Instagram page, which has existed since 2015. 

The Seeley Library, the name of which has previously been a topic of contention due to claims that it carries colonial associations, is currently undergoing renovation works. The library shut its doors in December 2024, and is not expected to reopen them until 2028. It is currently occupying a designated space within the University Library. 

The placement of the flag follows a recent pro-Palestine protest (23/05) during which one activist covered himself in red paint and attached himself to the gates outside of Senate House. The demonstration was held while graduation ceremonies were taking place.

The University has been contacted for comment.