Environmental activists have targeted the iconic Stonehenge, spraying it with orange powder paint, as shown in footage circulating on social media.
Incident Details
On Wednesday, environmental protesters sprayed orange paint on the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge, one of the UK's most famous tourist attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Video footage from Just Stop Oil, an environmental activist group advocating against human-caused climate change, shows two individuals dressed in white spraying the paint while a bystander attempts to intervene.
🚨 BREAKING: Just Stop Oil Spray Stonehenge Orange
— Just Stop Oil (@JustStop_Oil) June 19, 2024
🔥 2 people took action the day before Summer Solstice, demanding the incoming government sign up to a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030.
🧯 Help us take megalithic action — https://t.co/R20S8YQD1j pic.twitter.com/ufzO8ZiDWu
Arrests Made
Wiltshire Police promptly responded to the incident, arresting two individuals on suspicion of damaging the ancient structure. The police statement emphasized ongoing investigations and collaboration with English Heritage, the organization responsible for managing historic sites like Stonehenge.
Political Reactions
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned the act, labeling Just Stop Oil as a "disgrace" on social media platform X. In response, the activists retorted, downplaying the impact of the corn starch-based paint and making a political jibe at Sunak's tenure.
Context of Just Stop Oil's Activities
This isn't the first time Just Stop Oil has made headlines for their controversial methods. In 2022, members of the group threw tomato soup on Van Gogh's "Sunflowers" at the National Gallery in London. Additionally, they disrupted the Wimbledon Tennis Championships by throwing confetti during a match, highlighting their protest against Barclays Bank's fossil fuel investments.
The incident at Stonehenge has added to the ongoing debate about the methods and impact of environmental activism.
