Hasson presents Kiryat Gat and Iran flags
Photo: Tova Dadon
Ahmadinejad on backdrop of Iranian flag
Photo: AFP
Kiryat Gat to replace 'Iranian' flag?
Council member suggests changing flag designed for southern city 56 years ago, as it is reminiscent of flag adopted by Iran following Islamic revolution
The southern city of Kiryat Gat is considering replacing its flag due to its resemblance to the Iranian flag. Council Member Benny Hasson on Sunday suggested that the municipality adopt a new flag which will not look like the one placed behind Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
The Kiryat Gat flag was designed 56 years ago, and features a scythe used for harvesting wheat and a cotton flower. Its colors are red, white and green.
The current Iranian flag, which was adopted after the Islamic revolution, is also red, white and green. The emblem in the center of the flag features four moons and a sword. Hasson presented the Iranian flag to the council members.
The proposal drew an opposition. One council member asked, "Why should we replace our flag? Just because a hostile country changed its own flag? The city must not forget its past, and this city's past is the cotton fiber. The fact that the replacing fiber today is the optic fiber doesn't change a thing."
Hasson argued, on the other hand, that "the flag is no longer relevant these days, and its colors and features should be replaced."
The opponents were unconvinced. "Is this what this city is lacking now?" One of them asked. "Do you know how much it costs replacing a flag? Where will the city get the money for such an unnecessary expenditure?"
The opposing council members suggested that Iran be the one to replace its flag, leaving the southern city to engage in more urgent matters.
Former Mayor Albert Erez did not rule out the offer. "During my tenure we replaced the motives of the city's medal. There is nothing wrong with asking artists in the area to examine the issue. This is not a taboo. They should come up with alternative proposals, and we may eventually decide to keep our flag."
The council members eventually decided to appoint a special committee headed by Mayor Aviram Dahari, which would look into the matter and present its recommendation to the city council.
