Two individuals climbed the Empire State Building in New York on Tuesday and unfurled a peace flag, triggering a swift response from authorities. The flag carried the message, “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace,” and remained visible from street level for a short time.
Local media reported that the climbers accessed the building’s exterior in the early morning hours. Their actions drew attention from pedestrians and nearby office workers in Midtown Manhattan. Police and emergency services quickly secured the area and monitored the situation to ensure public safety. Officials confirmed that no one suffered injuries and that the incident caused no disruption to normal building operations.
🚨 BREAKING: 2 people have climbed the Empire State Building in New York to fly a flag. The flag reads “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.” pic.twitter.com/YrIudqf9Lx
— FOX 4 NEWS (@FOX4) July 1, 2026
Witnesses described the act as a symbolic gesture rather than a politically motivated protest. Photos and videos of the flag spread rapidly on social media, where users debated both the message and the risks taken by the climbers.
Authorities later brought the individuals down safely and opened an investigation into the security breach. Officials said they would review surveillance footage and decide whether to file charges.
The Empire State Building attracts millions of visitors each year and operates under strict security measures. Incidents involving unauthorised climbs remain rare in New York.
