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Hoboken Removes Palestinian Flag After First Intifada Anniversary Backlash

City leaders call the date an oversight, prompting a review of flag-raising rules.

Overview

  • The Palestinian flag was raised at Hoboken City Hall on December 9 as part of the city's cultural flag program and was taken down the same day.
  • Mayor Ravi Bhalla said the timing coincided with the First Intifada anniversary by mistake and emphasized that no political message was intended.
  • Mayor-elect Emily Jabbour criticized the decision as insensitive and said she heard from Jewish residents who were upset by the timing.
  • Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher said the City Council was not consulted and called for a clearer process for approving such displays.
  • Officials said cultural flag raisings will continue, with plans to update the policy to secure more community input before future events.