A drone flew a Palestine flag over the home of rugby as England took on Italy in the Six Nations at Twickenham.
The match continued but officials were left monitoring the skies in South West London after the object was spotted hovering above the Allianz Stadium.
As England were awarded a lineout in Italy's 22, ITV commentator Nick Mullins said: "If you're wondering why there was a little pause a second or so ago, it's because there was a drone flying above the stadium, making a political point.
"The drone was not one of our broadcast drones. But I'm just wondering if Andy Brace [the referee] was just a little bit concerned about it hovering above the roof over the players."
However, the Rugby Football Union since clarified play was not halted as a result of the drone and play continued after officials briefly monitored the situation.
England went on to beat Italy 47-24 to keep their Six Nations dream alive, though if only a slim hope with France poised to claim victory.
The drone flying the Palestine flag flies over Twickenham
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The drone involved flew over the stadium temporarily before hovering off with the Palestine flag draped underneath from two strings.
Rugby fans fumed on social media with one taking to social media to write: "Where’s the RAF when you need them."
Another posted: "Have a day off." While a third said: "Shoot it down."
Activists behind the drone confusion revealed Twickenham was targeted due to commercial ties with Elbit Systems - an Israeli defence contractor.
England surged to second place in the Six Nations table after a commanding seven-try victory over Italy at Allianz Stadium.
The impressive win puts Steve Borthwick's men in prime position to capitalise on any final-day slip-up by tournament leaders France.
In what ultimately became a comfortable victory, England showed their attacking prowess against a spirited Italian side.
The result maintains England's momentum as the championship reaches its crucial final stages.
England scored seven tries against Italy on Sunday
Reuters
Wing Ollie Sleightholme was the star performer, crossing the line twice to bolster England's attacking display.
Despite the final scoreline, Italy made the hosts work hard in the opening period as the visitors produced two superb tries of their own to stay within touching distance.
Replacement Marcus Smith made an immediate impact after coming on at a tense moment, crossing the line to extend England's advantage as the hosts went on to score a total of seven tries.
Borthwick's side end their Six Nations campaign with a trip to Cardiff next week to take on Wales, who have lost 16 matches in a row.
