Eiffel tower goes dark in support of people in Aleppo
The Eiffel tower’s usually bright exterior went dark on Wednesday in a sign of solidarity with people in eastern Aleppo.
"At the request of Mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, the Eiffel Tower will be symbolically dark this evening, Wednesday, December 14, to demonstrate the support of Paris to the besieged inhabitants of the city of Aleppo in Syria," Eiffel Tower officials said on the iconic structure’s website.
Tower officials called the move a “symbolic measure” meant to encourage the international community to act.
Aleppo, which was once Syria’s largest city and commercial capital, has been ravaged by a five-year civil war. Nearly half a million Syrians have been killed with millions of others displaced.
Earlier this week, reports surfaced that pro-government forces executed civilians on the few blocks still held by rebels as they reclaimed the city.
"The teams of the Eiffel Tower Operating Company fully support this initiative of the city of Paris and their thoughts will go to the inhabitants of Aleppo tonight," Eiffel Tower management said in a statement.
Contributing: Jane Onyanga-Omara